A group called The Taconite Lung Workers Health Partnership, which includes the Minnesota Department of Health, announced that a former Iron Range taconite miner passed away as a result of mesothelioma at their third meeting on June 12th. It was the 59th fatal case of mesothelioma in former Iron Range mine workers.
The meeting was held to discuss continued critical health investigations into the prevalence of deadly mesothelioma present in former Iron Range mine workers. The University of Minnesota is also involved in these ongoing studies. A timeline and list of specific goals was unveiled during the June 12th meeting.
Included is a comprehensive plan to provide unannounced respiratory and general health screenings for approximately 1, 200 current and former mine workers, as well as their spouses. Recent cases involving mesothelioma diagnoses in spouses of mine workers prompted the group to expand the health screenings to include individuals that may be exposed to asbestos indirectly [recent news stories claim that several women who were married to miners were exposed by washing their spouses clothing]. The random health screenings will begin in summer of 2009.
Currently, former health studies are being organized and analyzed. Additionally, air quality samples are being collected. A $4.9 million dollar trust will fund the Taconite Lung Workers Health Partnership’s long-term goals.
The Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center credits the Minnesota Health Department, along with the Taconite Lung Workers Health Partnership, for their dedicated efforts to continuous mesothelioma-related research.
The Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center is the web’s leading resource for information related to mesothelioma, various mesothelioma treatment options, and asbestos exposure. Please visit the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center website for further information.
