Newton, Massachusetts – A hospital in Newton, Massachusetts is currently investigating a concerning situation after five nurses working on the same floor have been diagnosed with benign brain tumors. The Mass General Brigham Newton-Wellesley Hospital reported that a total of 11 employees from the fifth-floor maternity unit have raised health concerns, with five of them specifically diagnosed with brain tumors.
According to the hospital’s Jonathan Sonis and Sandy Muse, initial investigations have not found any clear environmental factors that could be associated with the development of these tumors. Various potential sources were considered during the investigation, including disposable masks, water supply, nearby x-rays, and chemotherapy treatments done on the floor below.
The hospital affirmed that there is no environmental risk to their staff and patients based on the results of the investigation conducted in collaboration with government health and safety officials. However, the Massachusetts Nurses Association, the union representing the nurses at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, has expressed intentions to carry out an independent scientific investigation to further understand the situation.
The MNA spokesperson, Joe Markman, highlighted the importance of a thorough investigation to address the concerns raised by the nurses. The union emphasized that the hospital’s own investigation may not have been comprehensive, as they only spoke with a limited number of nurses.
While a state agency spokesperson was unable to provide conclusive information on the matter, the American Cancer Society noted that cancer clusters require a specific set of criteria to be defined as such. With nearly four out of ten people in the U.S. developing cancer during their lifetimes, clusters are not uncommon in relatively small areas.
Health and safety officials at the hospital continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to address the concerns of their employees and provide a safe environment for both staff and patients. The ongoing investigations aim to shed light on the possible causes behind the development of the brain tumors among the nurses on the fifth-floor maternity unit at the Newton-Wellesley Hospital.