Minnesota’s Iron Range is an area where taconite and other forms of iron ore have been mined for generations. Epidemiological research over the previous few years has shown that miners in this area have developed mesothelioma at a much higher rate than the national average and many questions have been raised as to why this is. Taconite is a form of low-grade iron ore, but it is not an asbestos mineral, which is the only conclusively shown cause of pleural mesothelioma, as well as the other forms of the disease. A number of studies on standard taconite have confirmed that it does have an asbestos-like form, but that it is conclusively not an asbestos-mineral and, therefore, should not present with the same risks of exposure as does asbestos. However: the rate of mesothelioma in the Iron Range has generated new questions about taconite exposure and now the University of Minnesota is seeking funding for a number of studies on this question.

Officials from The University appeared before the Minnesota House to request $4.9 for the studies, which are expected to take of five years. $4.1 million will be devoted to the actual completion of the studies and $800,000 will be devoted to air quality testing in the area.

University health officials said that some of the questions the study seeks to answer will include: What was the actual cause of death of the approximately 70,000 miners employed in the state’s taconite mines between the 1950s to the 1980s. Is there a link between health conditions and the time spent in the miners? What—if anything—was the difference in harmful material exposures between the 58 miners who died of mesothelioma and those who didn’t develop the cancer?

All who are involved and aware of the situation support the commencement of the studies. The funding is sure to be received, but the manner in which it is approved will likely be the major negotiation. The findings are already early awaited by many people, but are most eagerly awaited by the miners and their families, as what can be understood about the exposures of the previous generations is likely to protect the lives and well-being of the younger miners who are just entering the industry today.

Labels: mesothelioma