Scientists Find New Cause of Mesothelioma

Tuesday April 14, 2009

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that has generally been accepted to be caused by long-term exposure to asbestos. In fact, this exposure was considered to be the only cause for the deadly form of cancer. However, scientists recently found another type of material, which is found naturally in the western United States, especially the mines of the Kildeer Mountains in North Dakota, that they believe to be connected to the disease.

The fibers of Erionite create a reaction similar to the body’s response to asbestos. It is often breathed in by miners in North Dakota and leads to a rapid, aggressive form of mesothelioma. Also, the mineral is used as a form of gravel on many rural roads in North Dakota and other western states, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Now, the government is working to clean up areas where this mineral is widespread, and perform tests on those who have been exposed to it. They are not having much luck in gathering volunteers for the study, which would evaluate X-rays and CT scans on participants. Scientists need at least 50 volunteers to create an accurate study, but thus far, they have only managed to convince less than 10 to cooperate. There is no cure for mesothelioma.

Sources: http://www.attorneyatlaw.com/2009/04/erionite-asbestos-like-material-may...