At least five nurses from a hospital in the Boston area have been diagnosed with brain tumors, raising concerns and prompting investigations into possible causes. The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) has expressed its support for the nurses working at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, particularly those in the maternity unit on the fifth floor, where the diagnoses have been reported.
The MNA stated that they understand the urgency surrounding this issue. Nurses, their families, and patients are understandably anxious about the situation. In response, the MNA is pursuing an independent scientific investigation into the matter.
According to reports, more than 300 current and former staff members have reached out to the MNA to share their health concerns. Some of these responses include emails, surveys, and phone calls detailing experiences related to their health after working at the hospital.
Newton-Wellesley Hospital has conducted its own assessment, interviewing 11 staff members who worked on the fifth floor. The findings indicated that five of the cases involved benign brain tumors, while the other six were not tumors at all but other health issues.
In a statement to the media, hospital officials reassured staff and patients that investigations have found no environmental risks linked to the development of brain tumors. They emphasized that the health and safety of their healthcare workers and patients is their top priority.
However, the review revealed that 668 X-rays had been performed with portable machines on the fifth floor between 2020 and 2024. This raised concerns about radiation exposure, increasing the risk compared to typical exposure levels. Even so, the hospital stated that nurses employ appropriate safety measures during X-ray procedures.
While the hospital believes there is no environmental hazard, the MNA has emphasized that their investigation is ongoing and they are committed to transparency. They are working closely with the hospital to ensure thoroughness and support for the affected nurses.
As the situation develops, the MNA is dedicated to sharing further findings with the nursing staff and the public, highlighting the importance of addressing health concerns within the healthcare community.
