Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Lead Exposure Tied to Brain Cancer


A new study from the University of Rochester’s Medical Center has indicated that prolonged workplace exposure to lead increases a person's risk for brain cancer. Those routinely exposed to lead had a nearly 50% higher chance of dying from the cancer. Despite causing nearly 2.5% of all cancer deaths, a total of approximately 13,000 deaths a year, very little is known about the cause of brain cancer. The only known cause of brain and spinal cord tumors is exposure to radiation.

Lead has long been a known environmental hazard; however studies such as this one have solidified the link. It has been suggested that more studies need to be completed to not only further establish the dangers of lead, but also of other environmental factors and their adverse health affects.

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