A Boston-area hospital, Mass General Brigham Newton-Wellesley Hospital, is investigating after five nurses on the fifth-floor maternity unit developed benign brain tumors. In total, 11 employees reported health concerns, prompting an investigation to identify any potential environmental risks. However, the hospital stated that no environmental risks linked to brain tumor development were found, ruling out disposable masks, water supply, x-rays, and chemotherapy treatment as possible sources. The Massachusetts Nurses Association, which represents the nurses at the hospital, has also expressed concerns and is conducting its own independent investigation.
The American Cancer Society notes that for a cluster of cancer cases to be considered significant, they must be the same type, occur in the same area, have the same cause, and exceed the expected number of occurrences. The society also points out that the development of cancer is relatively common in the United States, with nearly 4 out of 10 people expected to develop cancer in their lifetime, making it conceivable for multiple cases to arise in a small area.
Thus far, no conclusive information has been provided by state or federal health agencies regarding the matter. The investigation continues as the hospital, along with health and safety officials, work to determine the cause of the brain tumors among the hospital staff. The community remains concerned about potential risks and is eager for answers as the investigation unfolds.
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