Tuesday, June 13, 2006
The first series of tests in Wescoe Hall began last week to see if the building can be linked to a series of cases of brain tumors within the past eight years. These primary air sampling tests started June 8 and continued on June 9 and 12.
John Neuberger, epidemiologist and principle investigator, held a closed meeting with about 30 concerned Wescoe Hall employees June 7 to discuss the outline of the study and answer questions they might have about it. The meeting was closed to ensure that the people there could freely discuss health issues. According to Neuberger, there have been at least five cases of brain tumors, both benign and malignant.
Another sampling will be taken in the fall or winter, according to a handout from the meeting. The company doing the testing will be testing for radon, volatile organic compounds, carbon dioxide and mold, as well as other chemicals. The tests will also check the asbestos and lead content within the building, as well as the electromagnetic fields and air exchange velocity at certain locations.
Kathleen McCluskey-Fawcett, senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, said that the University was responding to concerns from faculty members.
Neuberger said that because the types of tumors in question develop over long periods of time, this should not be an issue to students.
This situation, however, has proven of large concern to many faculty members that have spent years working in their offices located in Wescoe Hall.
Marjorie Swann, associate professor of English, said that in light of the situation, she has moved out of her office and works from home, visiting Wescoe Hall only when necessary. She said that because she is part of the faculty she has that option, but the staff people – like the custodial staff – do not have that choice. Swann said that it would be optimal if all staff and faculty had the option to be relocated, but said she understands there is a space problem.
“I take this very seriously,” Swann said. “I think it’s fair to say that everyone in Wescoe is now afraid.”
According to Neuberger, the average statistic for brain cancer is 6.6 cases out of every 10,000 people. So far, there have been at least five reported cases of brain tumors, three of which occurred within the past year. About 400 people have offices in Wescoe Hall.
“We have absolutely no reason to believe that there are health-related problems in Wescoe,” McCluskey-Fawcett said. “But we do care about our employees.”
If the testing turned up anything to be worried about, McCluskey-Fawcett said the University would take immediate action.
“It freaks me out a little bit,” said Kelli Teague, Belleplaine, junior. “But since I’m not here as often as the teachers are, I’m not personally concerned.”
“I’m glad they’re investigating it,” said Andrew Ledbetter, Lawrence graduate student. “But I’m not that freaked out.”
The testing process has two phases: the first is the air quality and electromagnetic testing, and the second is an interview process with those who either currently work in and have worked in Wescoe Hall, and an inquiry about their medical history.
McCluskey-Fawcett said the total cost for the seven-month investigation would not be determined until after the lab sent the bills.
Although the five cases have occurred in people whose offices were on the second and thrid floors, Neuberger said that all floors will be checked.
“I think the University is responding quickly and very responsibly,” Swann said. “I think they are doing the right thing.”
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