Health Consultation: Evaluation of Potential Cancer Risk from Exposure to Gypsum at the A-4 Gypsum Pond, Bunker Hill Mining and Metallurgical Complex, Smelterville, Shoshone County, Idaho. EPA Facility ID: IDD048340921

摘要

In spring 2000, the Cancer Data Registry of Idaho (CDRI) received an inquiry from a physician in Kellogg, Idaho about the incidence of brain cancer in the Kellogg community. In June 2000, CDRI sent a letter to the physician informing him there was not an increased rate of brain cancer. CDRI stated they would perform a periodic review of brain cancer and would request local cancer registrars immediately report new brain cancer cases in the area to CDRI (called rapid case ascertainment). In January 2001, CDRI reanalyzed the data based on a newly diagnosed case, and found that an area of Kellogg did have a statistically significant elevated rate of brain cancer. The area of focus was defined as a census block group located in Kellogg; bounded by I-90, South Division Street, McKinley Avenue, and the East Smelterville Loop. There were three cases of brain cancer diagnosed among residents of the block group from 1990-2000 with only zero to one case expected based upon rates in Idaho. A survey of the three cancer cases and two others who resided outside the area of focus but worked in the area, found no common factor or exposure that linked the cases (CAWG 2001). An additional case of brain cancer was identified after CDRI completed the survey.