Recent laboratory studies have
shown a connection between exposure to nanotubes and the onset of pleural mesothelioma,
a deadly cancer that – until now – had only been attributed to exposure to
asbestos. Nanotubes are small, thin, multi-walled carbon-based tubes that, when
inserted into the mesothelial walls of lab mice, result in similar biological
effects of mice who have been injected with asbestos. The introduction of both nanotubes and asbestos into lab mice
produced cancer-like lesions and granuloma, internal scar tissue common in
cancer patients. These particular effects are prevalent in humans who suffer
from asbestos-related disease, which take the lives of approximately 90,000 people each year.
In order to continue this necessary
research into the possible effects of nanotube use, more federal funding is
absolutely necessary. Currently, the federal government has allocated $1.5
billion dollars towards continued nanotechnology research. However, only 4% of
this funding is dedicated for health-related studies. Steps are being taken
towards providing additional funding, with the introduction of Bill HR5940 into
Congress, as well as the National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendment Act of
2008. If this crucial bill passes, White House officials will draft a “health
and safety roadmap” for the continuation of nanotechnology investigation.
Mesothelioma.com commends lawmakers
for their continued interest in the topic. Furthering the necessary research
into the possible nexus between nanotube exposure and the development of
mesothelioma can only help the efforts to find a cure for this deadly cancer. This
is important not only for those who may have been exposed by carbon nanotubes,
but also those who are suffering the effects of harmful asbestos exposures. Although
researchers claim that there is no need for immediate concern regarding exposure
to carbon-based nanotubes, the scientific community urges the government to
continue allocating funding for additional studies.
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