Health

Another Newton-Wellesley Hospital staffer reports brain tumor

Six staff members have now reported developing non-cancerous brain tumors after working on the fifth floor for “varying durations,” the Newton hospital said.

Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Newton. Keith Bedford/Boston Globe, File

By Abby Patkin

1 minute to read

Another Newton-Wellesley Hospital staff member reportedly recent update. 

Previously:

However, she said the hospital “found no evidence that these medical conditions were caused by the work environment.”

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According to Moloney, the MGB Department of Occupational Health and Safety investigation is being led by a “multi-disciplinary group of experts,” including several independent firms. The analysis has involved interviews with impacted staff, a review of air and water quality, and testing for potential radiation, chemical, or pharmaceutical exposures, she said. 

“Based on the results of this rigorous ongoing investigation, we can assure you that no environmental risks have been identified at our hospital,” Moloney said.

The reported cases of benign brain tumors among staff occurred “over many years,” she noted. 

The Massachusetts Nurses Association previously told Boston.com its division of health and safety is also investigating the claims.

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“We are engaging with the hospital about their inquiry. They only spoke to a small number of nurses and their environmental testing was not comprehensive,” the MNA’s statement read. “The hospital cannot make this issue go away by attempting to provide a predetermined conclusion.”

Addressing patients and families in her update, Moloney emphasized the hospital’s focus on safety. 

“As always, your health, wellbeing, and safety — along with that of our employees — remain our top priority,” she said. “While there has been a great deal of misinformation shared on social media and in other forums, we want to make sure you have the facts.”

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Abby Patkin

Staff Writer

Abby Patkin is a general assignment news reporter whose work touches on public transit, crime, health, and everything in between.

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