-
Multi-Site Multiple Myeloma Case-Control
Study
Contractor: University of North Carolina
(Steven Wing, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1993-1997
Summary:
This multisite case-control study focused on external radiation and
chemical exposures at five DOE sites: Savannah River, Los Alamos
National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory-Zia, Oak Ridge
National Laboratory, and Hanford. Ninety-eight workers who died
from multiple myeloma and 391 age-matched controls were selected
from the combined roster of 115,143 workers hired before 1979.
These workers were followed for vital status through 1990 (1986 for
Hanford). Cases were disproportionately African-American, male, and
hired before1948. Although an association between multiple myeloma
and cumulative whole body ionizing radiation dose was not observed,
external penetrating radiation doses received at age 45 and above
were associated with multiple myeloma.
Manuscript:
Wing S, Richardson D, Wolf S, Mihlan G, Crawford-Brown D, Wood J
[2000]. A case control study of multiple myeloma at four nuclear
facilities. Ann Epidemiol 10: 144-153. PDF version of
report: pages 1-50 (6566KB);
pages 51-100 (3416KB); pages 101-150 (5744KB); pages 151-202 (4283KB).
Significance:
This study complements the intramural leukemia case-control study
being done at the same sites and the myeloma case-control study
with internal radiation exposure at the Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion
Plant (K-25). The role of age at exposure in ionizing radiation
studies was examined.
-
Mercury Workers Health Study
Contractor: Oak Ridge Associated Universities
(Donna Cragle, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1993-1996
Summary:
This is a followup study of neurologic health outcomes in workers
exposed to elemental mercury at the Y-12 Plant (Oak Ridge) between
1953-1966. Neurologic effects of relatively heavy exposure to
mercury were still detectable more than 30 years after exposure
ceased. The adverse effects were observed primarily for the
peripheral nervous system (by both clinical examination and
electrodiagnostic evaluation). Postural tremor was also associated
with past mercury exposure. Study participants were notified of
their individual results, overall study results were presented to a
labor-management group in April 1997, and a technical report was
prepared for NIOSH at the end of the study.
Manuscript:
Departments of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education and of
Environmental and Occupational Health; Rollins School of Public
Health of Emory University, and The Center for Epidemiologic
Research Environmental and Health Sciences Division; Oak Ridge
Associated Universities, [Undated]. A study of the health effects
of exposure to elemental mercury: a followup of mercury exposed
workers at the Y-12 plant in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. (DHHS Contract
200-93-2629, Final Technical Report.) Available from the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-related Energy
Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH,134 pg. PDF version available. (5119KB)
Significance:
This morbidity study of noncancer neurologic outcomes associated
with chemical exposure is applicable to surveillance efforts.
-
Historical Plutonium Bioassay
Measurements
Contractor: New York University (Norman Cohen,
Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1993-1995
Summary:
This research evaluated the bias, uncertainty, and selectivity of
plutonium bioassay procedures used by DOE over time, since they may
affect the retrospective dosimetry of plutonium workers.
Significance:
This study includes an analysis and is needed for internal exposure
assessment of plutonium.
-
Accounting for Errors in Radiation Dose
Estimates
Grantee: Battelle Pacific Northwest
Laboratories (Ethel Gilbert, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1994-1996
Summary:
This study developed an approach to accounting for random
uncertainties in estimates of cumulative external dose and applied
the model to Hanford data. The analysis included evaluation of
photon energy, angle of photon incidence, and different dosimeter
designs. The effect of these factors on estimates of organ dose and
on dose-response analysis in epidemiology studies was also
evaluated.
Manuscript:
Gilbert E, Fix JJ, Baumgartner WV [1996]. An approach to evaluating
bias and uncertainty in estimates of external dose obtained from
personal dosimeters. Health Physics 70 (3):336-345.
Significance:
Uncertainty analysis; accounting for bias in external dose
estimates.
-
Cohort Mortality Study of Portsmouth Gaseous
Diffusion Plant, Piketon, Ohio
Investigator: NIOSH intramural study (Project
officer: Robert Rinsky, Ph.D.)
Study Period: 1992-2001
Summary:
The mortality of workers at Portmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant was
updated through 1992. Radiation exposure assessments were performed
for internal and external ionizing radiation, certain chemicals,
and electromagnetic fields. No significantly elevated standardized
mortality ratios (SMRs) were observed for overall or specific
causes of death. Case-control analyses of lung, lymphoma,
hematopoietic, and stomach cancers and exposures to internal
soluble alpha dose, fluorines, nickel, and uranium were done.
Manuscript:
NIOSH [2001]. Mortality patterns among uranium enrichment workers
at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant Piketon, Ohio. Final
Technical Report. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services; Public Health Service; Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention; National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health; Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field
Studies; Health-related Energy Research Branch, 179 pg. PDF version available (1140 KB)
Summary report (61 KB)
Significance:
This study, initiated by a response to a congressional request,
assessed lung cancer in this previously studied cohort and
extensive exposure assessment for chemicals and radiation were
completed.
-
Feasibility Study of Assessing Adverse
Reproductive Outcomes Among Females Employed at DOE
Facilities
Cafeteria.
Idaho National Engineering and Environmental
Laboratory, Idaho Falls, Idaho. 1957. Photo courtesy of the
U.S. Department of Energy.
Investigator: NIOSH intramural study (Project
officer: Barbara Massoudi, Ph.D.)
Study Period: 1995-1996
Summary:
The feasibility of conducting a retrospective cohort study of
adverse reproductive outcomes among women employed at DOE sites
depends on four factors: (1) availability of an appropriate study
population; (2) a valid case definition and means of ascertainment;
(3) exposure to the agent(s) in question and sufficient information
to characterize such exposure; (4) and adequate sample size to
demonstrate an effect. To address these issues, several sources of
data were collected and evaluated by NIOSH investigators. Data
obtained on women who worked at 20 previously studied DOE sites
included demographic characteristics, radiation monitoring data,
and vital status. Information was collected on birth defects
registries in states near DOE facilities. Assembly of a cohort of
female DOE workers to examine clinically recognized outcomes such
as miscarriage and birth defects would be difficult. However, other
study designs to assess reproductive health in the DOE workforce
may be feasible.
Manuscript:
Massoudi BL [1996]. Adverse reproductive outcomes among females
employed at Department of Energy facilities: The feasibility of
epidemiologic studies. Available from the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health/Health-related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH. [Final Report] Unpublished. 18 pg. PDF version available (2175KB)
Significance:
This feasibility assessment addresses issues relevant to current
women workers and noncancer outcomes.
-
Childhood Leukemia Case-Control
Study
Installing reactor vessel.
Idaho National Engineering and
Environmental Laboratory, Idaho Falls, Idaho. Date unknown.
Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of Energy.
Awardee: Battelle Laboratories (Lowell Sever,
Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1992-1997
Summary:
This case-control study assessed the potential association between
paternal exposure to ionizing radiation and risk of leukemia in
offspring, a finding observed in Sellafield, England by Gardner et
al. (1990). The study follows up on previous findings of birth
defects (Central nervous system [CNS] tumors) at Hanford. The
study, initiated at the Hanford Site, was expanded to Oak Ridge and
Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory, and
included non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and central nervous system CNS
tumors as outcomes. The study found no evidence of a link between
childhood cancer risk and father's radiation work at the DOE sites
included in the study. This finding did not change if each site was
looked at alone or all together. A much weaker finding that relates
only to Hanford children was noted. Children whose fathers worked
at Hanford were more likely to get CNS cancer than children whose
fathers worked at the other sites. However, this finding was not
statistically significant and was based on a small number of cases.
The study was completed in November 1997; communication of results
to workers and management at the sites studied occurred in October
1998.
Manuscript:
Sever LE, Gilbert ES, Tucker K, Greaves J, Greaves C, Buchanan J
[1997]. Epidemiologic evaluation of childhood leukemia and paternal
exposure to ionizing radiation. Seattle, WA: Battelle Memorial
Institute; (CDC Cooperative Agreement U50/CCU012545-01, Final
Report.) Available from the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch,
Cincinnati, OH, 51 pg. PDF version
available (3045KB)
Significance:
Three other studies since the report of the results for Sellafield
have not shown an increase in childhood cancers among children
whose fathers were exposed to radiation before their child's
conception. This NIOSH-sponsored study agrees with and supports
those study findings.
-
Time-Related Factors in Radiation-Cancer Dose
Response
Grantee: University of North Carolina (Steven
Wing, Ph.D.; David Richardson, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1996-1997
Summary:
This study expanded, updated and re-analyzed a cohort of workers at
the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, that was originally analyzed by
Checkoway. The cohort included persons employed at Oak Ridge
National Laboratory between 1943 and 1972. Special emphasis was
given to the associations between radiation, cancer, and
time-related factors including age-at-exposure, latency, and time
since exposure. Evidence was found of a stronger dose response
association between exposure and cumulative dose received at older
ages.
Manuscript:
Richardson DB, Wing S [1998]. Methods for investigating age
differences in the effects of prolonged exposures. Am J Ind
Med 33:123-130.
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Significance:
Dose received after age 45 is strongly predictive of
all-cancer-combined mortality as well as lung cancer, which has
implications for future occupational epidemiologic research and
exposure standards.
-
Dose Estimation from Daily and Weekly Dosimetry
Data
Grantee: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (George
Ostrouchov, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1997-1998
Summary:
Statistical methods were used to estimate distributions of external
radiation exposures for workers included in epidemiology studies at
the Oak Ridge National facilities. The method took into account
measurement errors from film badge and pocket meter systems, from
recording left-censored doses as zeros, and from other practices
and policies. The amount of bias in previously used estimates of
exposure was substantial, although incorporation of the daily
pocket chamber readings reduced uncertainty in some estimates but
increased it in others.
Manuscript:
Ostrouchov G, Frome EL, Kerr GD [1998]. Dose estimation from daily
and weekly dosimetry data. Oak Ridge, TN: Oak Ridge National
Laboratory; (CDC-NIOSH Grant RO1 OH12956, Final Draft.) 38 pg.
PDF version available
(1718KB)
Significance:
This study involved exposure assessment methods development and
uncertainty analysis for external radiation exposure estimates used
in previous and current studies of workers at Oak Ridge
facilities.
-
Mine Specific Exposure
Information for Uranium Miners Study
Investigator: NIOSH intramural study (Project
officer: Mark Methner, Ph.D.)
Study Period: 1998-1999
Summary:
Additional mine-specific assignment of exposure levels identified
in historic records were entered into a database and delivered to
the principal investigator on the Measurement Error Methods for
Underground Miner Studies. The data will be used to examine
exposure measurement errors over time and apply them in a
reanalysis of exposure-time-response (including dose rate effects)
in lung cancer mortality for uranium miner cohorts in the Colorado
Plateau and New Mexico.
Manuscript:
Methner MM, Feng AH, Utterback DF [2001]. Use of Historical Uranium
Air Sampling Data to Estimate Worker Exposure Potential to Airborne
Radioactive Particulate in a Uranium Processing Facility. Appl
Occ and Env Hyg Vol 16(12): pp. 1150-1157.
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Significance:
Lung cancer risks identified for underground uranium miners
exposure to radon have been used extensively for setting
residential and occupational exposure limits.
-
Assessment of Electric and Magnetic Field
Exposures of Transportation Workers
Project Officer: NIOSH intramural study
(Project officer: Thurman Wenzl, Sc.D.)
Study Period: 1996-2000
Summary:
Personal exposures to power-frequency magnetic fields were measured
among airline employees and employees of a municipal electric bus
system. Among the bus workers, only electricians and those assigned
to work downtown (including police and supervisors) had elevated
average exposures; the downtown exposures appeared to be due to
various sources not necessarily related to the electric bus. Among
airline maintenance and ground personnel system, only maintenance
supervisors had slightly elevated exposures. Agents working on
reservations and at ticket counters had exposures equivalent to
typical magnetic fields.
Manuscripts:
Kaune WT [1999]. Study of occupational magnetic-field personal
exposures of non-flying airline employees. Richland, WA: EM
Factors; (CDC NIOSH Contract 200-94-2837, Contractor report.)
Available from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 52
pg. PDF version available
(1105KB) Factors EM [1999]. Study of occupational magnetic-field
personal exposures associated with Seattle metro transit's electric
trolley system. Richland, WA: EM Factors; (CDC NIOSH Contract
200-94-2837, Contractor report.) Available from the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy
Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 67 pg. PDF version available (2753KB)
Significance:
Since little is known of workers' magnetic field exposures outside
of electric utilities, these measurement surveys have clarified
that few of these transport workers have elevated exposures.
-
Cohort Mortality Study of Pantex Plant,
Amarillo, Texas
Project Officer: NIOSH intramural study
(Project officer: Sharon Silver, MS)
Study Period: 1996-2005
Summary:
A study of Pantex workers published in 1985 was limited by the
small number of deaths and short follow-up, although the risk of
several cancers was elevated. Vital status was updated through
1995. An SMR analysis with examination of dose-response was
conducted; however, it was not possible to update exposure
information for the cohort (duration of employment was used as a
surrogate for dose). A decision to return to the facility to
conduct an updated analysis is pending.
Manuscript:
Silver SR, Anderson-Mahoney P, Burphy J, Hiratzka S,
Schubauer-Berigan MK, Waters KM [2005]. Mortality Update for
the Pantex Weapons Facility: Final Report (NIOSH Intramural
Study). Available from the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 31 pgs. PDF version
available. Summary Report.
Significance:
Pantex is an operating facility that had not been downsized.
Similar exposures will be encountered by current and future
workers.
-
Cancer Incidence and Sentinel Event
Registries
Project Officer: NIOSH intramural study
(Project officer: Sara Foster, M.P.H.)
Study Period: 1998-2000
Summary:
Because a standardized national registry system does not exist in
the United States, incidence-based studies often depend on State
disease registries. This project examined population-based State
cancer and sentinel event registries to determine the feasibility
and suitability of these registry systems for occupational studies.
Information was collected from statewide cancer registries in 16
States of sixteen states containing DOE sites and those in the
immediately adjacent States. Despite limitations in state-wide
cancer registry systems, it is feasible to use many statewide
registries for occupational health studies.
Manuscript:
Foster S, Espinoza R [ 2000]. Cancer incidence and sentinel event
registries. Cincinnati, OH: National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research Program. [Final
draft report] Unpublished. 107 pg.
Significance:
This study will help researchers design incidence and morbidity
studies near DOE sites.
-
Prevention of Stress and Health Consequences
of Downsizing and Reorganization
Awardee: Boston University (Lew Pepper,
M.D.)
Award Period: 1995-2000
Summary:
Job stressors (i.e., work-related conditions implicated in disease
development) include job dissatisfaction, lack of job control, and
under-utilization of abilities. Sudden job change through strike,
retirement, layoff, relocation, or job loss may trigger these
stressors. In this multisite project, five DOE sites (Idaho
National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory, Los Alamos
National Laboratory, Nevada Test Site, Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant, and
Pantex) were selected to study the effects of downsizing on
organizational climate, worker health, and performance. Data
gathering included interviews, workplace observations, employee
discussion groups, an employee survey distributed to more
than10,500 employees, and a historical record review. Fore each
downsizing organization, researcher identified opportunities to
reduce job stress that could lead to improved employee health and
organizational well-being. Suggested intervention strategies were
proposed for further research.
Manuscript:
Pepper L [2000]. The Health effects of downsizing in the nuclear
industry: findings at the Idaho National Engineering and
Environmental Laboratory. Boston, MA: Department of Environmental
Health, Boston University School of Public Health; (CDC Cooperative
Agreement U60 CCU 112215, Final Report.) Available from the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 129
pg. PDF version available
(501KB) Pepper L [2000]. The Health effects of downsizing in the
nuclear industry: findings at the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Boston, MA: Department of Environmental Health, Boston University
School of Public Health; (CDC Cooperative Agreement U60 CCU 112215,
Final Report.) Available from the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 135 pg. PDF version available (537KB) Pepper L
[2000]. The Health effects of downsizing in the nuclear industry:
findings at the Nevada Test Site. Boston, MA: Department of
Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health;
(CDC Cooperative Agreement U60 CCU 112215, Final Report.) Available
from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 125
pg. PDF version available
(527KB) Pepper L [2000]. The Health effects of downsizing in the
nuclear industry: Pantex. Boston, MA: Department of Environmental
Health, Boston University School of Public Health; (CDC Cooperative
Agreement U60 CCU 112215, Final Report.) Available from the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 133
pg. PDF version available
(470KB) Pepper L [2000]. The Health effects of downsizing in the
nuclear industry: findings at the Y-12 Plant, Oak Ridge
Reservation. Boston, MA: Department of Environmental Health, Boston
University School of Public Health; (CDC Cooperative Agreement U60
CCU 112215, Final Report.) Available from the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 129 pg. PDF version available (532KB)
Significance:
This psychosocial morbidity study is relevant to current and future
workers, and could be used as the basis of future intervention or
surveillance efforts.
-
Mortality Among Female Nuclear Weapons
Workers
Grantee: State University of New York (Gregg
Wilkinson, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1994-2000
Summary:
Although 80,000 female workers have been employed at DOE facilities
over the years, the small numbers of female workers at any one
facility has limited their inclusion in previous health studies.
Female workers from 12 DOE plants were combined in this cohort
mortality study. Risk estimates were developed for exposure to
ionizing radiation or to chemical hazards. A strong healthy worker
effect was demonstrated for all causes of death among these
workers. For the entire pooled cohort, mortality from mental
disorders, diseases of the genitourinary system, and from
ill-defined conditions was higher than expected. External ionizing
radiation exposure in these workers appeared to be associated with
increased relative risk for leukemia and suggestively associated
with increased relative risks for all cancers combined and for
breast cancer.
Manuscript:
Wilkinson GS, Trieff, N, Graham, R [2000]. Study of mortality among
female nuclear weapons workers. Buffalo, NY: Department of Social
and Preventative Medicine, School of Medicine and Biomedical
Sciences, University of Buffalo, State University of New York;
(DHHS Grant Numbers: 1R01 OHO3274, R01/CCR214546, R01/CCR61
2934-01, Final Report.) Available from the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 447 pg. PDF
version available (1053KB)
Significance:
The first multisite mortality study of women workers at DOE
facilities.
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Glycophorin A
Biodosimetry in I-131 Treated Patients
Grantee: University of Pittsburgh (William L.
Bigbee, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1994-1999
Summary:
This research evaluated the in vivo glycophorin A-based
somatic cell mutation assay as a retrospective biodosimeter for use
in epidemiologic studies. The response of the assay as a
biodosimeter of radiation exposure was investigated in a
longitudinal study of patients receiving I-131 therapy for thyroid
disease. Assessment of the glycophorin A assay in this project
demonstrated that the biological response recorded by the
glycophorin A assay is substantially reduced for low dose/low dose
rate radiation exposures compared to that observed for acute
exposures. The assay appears to be sensitive only to exposures
exceeding 50 cSv.
Manuscript:
Bigbee WL, Brown ML, Burmeister LA, Carty SE, Swanson D, Watson CG
[1998]. Glycophorin A (GPA) biodosimetry in I-131 treated patients.
Center for Environmental and Occupational Health and Toxicology;
Department of Environmental and Occupational Health; Graduate
School of Public Health; University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
(DHHS Grant 5 RO1 OH03276, Final performance report.) Available
from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 36
pg. PDF version available
(2171KB)
Significance:
This research evaluated a biomarker of radiation exposure.
-
Exposure Assessment of Hazardous
Waste, Decontamination and Decommissioning, and Cleanup Workers -
Phase I
Recovery or placement of waste storage drums in shallow earth
site.
Idaho National Engineering and Environmental
Laboratory, Idaho Falls, Idaho. 1979. Photo courtesy of the
U.S. Department of Energy.
Project Officer: Greg Kinnes, M.S.
Study Period: 5/1/96 - 12/1/2000
Summary:
Some remediation workers who have worked at DOE sites cannot be
identified. Complete rosters of current and former remediation
workers do not exist. Reconstruction of rosters from multiple data
sources at the sites is labor intensive and may exclude some groups
of workers.
Accurate and complete exposure, work history, and medical
records data are not available for this population. Although
radiation exposure records appear to be complete, decentralized
responsibility for chemical exposure assessment and other records
has led to gaps in exposure, work history, and medical data.
Individual workers cannot consistently be linked to their
exposure and medical data. The storage of data and records in hard
copy format, on incompatible software platforms, and on media
produced by now obsolete hardware has diminished the ability to
identify workers and link them with their work history, exposure,
and medical data. The failure to standardize data collection and
archiving both within and among DOE sites will hinder linkage of
individuals to their data.
At the present time the necessary information to conduct
epidemiologic, exposure assessment, or hazard surveillance studies
of remediation workers is not available. The absence of worker
rosters, the difficulty of creating such rosters with currently
available data, gaps in work history, exposure, and medical data,
and data linkage problems limit the ability to conduct accurate and
comprehensive studies of remediation
workers.
Manuscript:
Silver SR, CF Robinson, Kinnes G, Taulbee T, Ahrenholz S [2000].
Evaluation of data for DOE site remediation workers. (NIOSH
Intramural Study, Final Report) Available from the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-related Energy
Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 37 pg. PDF version available (168KB)
Significance:
This study addresses exposures to current workers assesses
feasibility of tracking workforce for future studies evaluates
mixed exposures and supports surveillance activities.
-
Study of Heat Stress and Performance in
Carpenters at DOE Sites
Grantee: United Brotherhood of Carpenters
Health and Safety Fund (Kenneth Rosenman, M.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/95 - 9/29/00
Summary:
This study will determine if heat stress from the use of protective
clothing affects performance of carpenters and other construction
workers in remediation and hazardous waste work at Hanford and Oak
Ridge. Physiologic measures of heat stress and neurobehavioral
performance will be assessed under actual working conditions.
Manuscript:
Rosenman KD, Gardiner J, Cameron W, Anger KW [2000] United
Brotherhood of Carpenters Health and Safety Fund. (DHHS Grant 5 R01
CCR311859, Final performance report.) Available from the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-related Energy
Research Branch, Cincinnati, Ohio, 76 pg. PDF copies: Final report (26 KB), Appendix I, Instruction Manual for
Testing (2575 KB), Appendix
II, Baseline Medical Questionnaire (82 KB), Appendix II, Pre-Shift Questionnaire
(33 KB), Appendix II, Mid-Shift
Questionnaire (67 KB), Appendix II, Post-Shift Questionnaire
(69 KB), Appendix III, Consent
Form (34 KB), Appendix IV,
Outline of Data Analysis (72 KB), Appendix V, Add-On Study of mRNA (148
KB)
Significance:
This is a nonradiation and nonmortality study. It is applicable to
current workers to a preponderance of work at DOE sites and
applicable to surveillance.
-
Acute Radiation Syndrome in Russian Nuclear
Workers
Grantee: University of Pittsburgh (Neil Wald,
M.D.)
Award Period: 12/1/1996- 5/1/2002
Summary:
The purpose of this study, performed in collaboration with the
Russian Southern Urals Biophysics Institute, was to facilitate the
acquisition of diagnostic and prognostic information to help
nonexpert medical and paramedical personnel with the early
recognition of acute radiation syndrome in hospital and field
conditions. The study used data from 59 acute radiation syndrome
cases that occurred from 1948 to 1953 among workers at the Mayak
nuclear facilities in Russia.
Manuscript:
Wald N, Day R, Shekhter-Levin S, Vergona R, Aimin Z [2001]. Acute
Radiation Syndrome in Russian Nuclear Workers. Pittsburgh, PA:
University of Pittsburgh; (NIOSH Grant #1 R01 CCR312952-01, Final
Report) Available from the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health/Health-related Energy Research Branch,
Cincinnati, OH, 59 pg. PDF version
available. (179 KB)
Significance:
This is a noncancer study that involves international
collaboration.
-
Surveillance Methods for Solvent-Related
Hepatotoxicity, a Cross-Sectional Study at Hanford
Grantee: University of Washington (Carl A.
Brodkin, M.D.)
Award Period: 10/1/98-9/29/01
Summary:
The purpose of this cross-sectional study at the Hanford Nuclear
Reservation was to establish a scientific basis for surveillance of
hepatic effects in solvent exposed workers. One hundred industrial
painters exposed subacutely and chronically to a variety of solvent
mixtures over their working careers were compared with a referent
group of 100 nonexposed carpenters matched by age, gender and race.
The study examined the hypothesis that solvent-related hepatic
injury is characterized by parenchymal changes of steatosis and
fibrosis without associated necrotic changes, which are detected by
elevated hepatic transaminases in blood.
Manuscript:
Brodkin CA, Checkoway H, Bushley A, Stover Bert, McDonald G, Lee S,
Wang K, Carpenter K, Dubinsky T, Green D [2001]. Surveillance
Methods for Solvent-Related Hepatotoxicity. Seattle, Washington:
University of Washington; (NIOSH Grant SERCA 1 K01 OH00165-01,
Technical Report) Available from the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health/Health-related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 7pg. PDF
version available. (15 KB) Tables (146 KB)
Significance:
The non-invasive surveillance methods address a priority research
area of the National Occupational Research Agenda.
-
Lung Fibrosis
in Plutonium Workers
Grantee: National Jewish
Hospital (Lee Newman, M.D.)
Award Period: 1995-1999
Summary:
This project studied whether workers were at increased risk for
developing radiographic abnormalities consistent with fibrosis. The
relationship between 239Pu and other exposures and lung fibrosis
was examined in chest x-rays of 327 plutonium- exposed Rocky Flats
Plant workers and 194 workers without plutonium exposure.
Significance:
Plutonium-induced lung fibrosis was observed in a plutonium exposed
worker population consistent with results in animal testing using
multiple species.
Manuscript:
Newman LS, Mroz MM, Ruttenber JA [2002]. Lung fibrosis in plutonium
workers. Division of Environmental and Occupational Health
Sciences; National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, CO.
(DHHS Grant R01 811855. Revised final performance report.)
Available from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 19
pg. PDF version available
(53KB) Summary Report
(99KB)
Newman-LS; Ruttenber-JA; Mroz-MM [1999] Lung Fibrosis in
Plutonium Workers. NIOSH 1999 Dec :1-19; DP: 19991222 Final Grant
Report: 466048 Grant-Number-R01-CCR-811855
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Newman LS, Mroz MM, Ruttenber AJ [2005] Lung fibrosis in
plutonium workers. RADIAT RES 164 (2): 123-131 AUG 2005
Newman-LS [2002] Beryllium disease natural history and
exposure-response NIOSH 2002 Jan; :1-17 : PB2004-104522 NP: A03
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Significance:
Plutonium-induced lung fibrosis was observed in a plutonium exposed
worker population consistent with results in animal testing using
multiple species.
-
Epidemiologic Evaluation of Cancer and
Occupational Exposures at the Rocky Flats Environmental
Technology
Site Awardee: Colorado
Department of Public Health and Environment
Award Period: 1993-2003
Summary:
This study included Rocky Flats workers who died between 1952 and
1996, and had three main components:
Cohort Mortality Study: This component
examined the causes of death among 16,303 Rocky Flats production
workers employed for 6 months or more between 1952 and 1989.
Nested Lung Cancer Case Control Study:
A case-control study was implemented to compare 180 workers who
died and had been diagnosed with lung cancer with a control group
of 720 workers who had not been diagnosed with lung cancer. The
goal of this component was to determine whether subjects with lung
cancer had higher internal lung doses than those who did not have
lung cancer, and to determine whether smoking frequency or other
variables could have affected this relationship.
Exposure Assessment: Plant records
were used to estimate annual external penetrating radiation doses,
cumulative internal exposure to plutonium, and estimates of annual
exposures to asbestos, beryllium, and eight other toxic chemicals
for workers in the cohort.
Manuscript:
Ruttenber AJ, Schonbeck M, Brown S, Wells T, McClure D, McCrea J,
Popken D, Martyny J [2003]. Report of Epidemiologic Analyses
Performed for Rocky Flats Production Workers Employed Between
1952-1989: Available from the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch,
Cincinnati, OH. [Final Report] Unpublished. 75 pg. PDF version
available: Summary (30 KB)
A version of this report, created after a final report was
received by NIOSH and communicated with site workers and
management, is available on the Colorado Department of Public
Health and Environment web site. The link to that site is
http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/rf/rfpworkerstudy/RockyFlatsFinalNIOSHReport_text.pdf
-
Correcting for Measurement Errors in
Radiation Exposure
Grantee: New York University (Xiaonan Xue,
Ph.D.)
Award Period: 7/1/99-6/30/02
Summary:
This research will develop methods for correcting radiation
exposure measurement errors, including both systematic and random
errors. In this research, a joint model for measurement error and
dose- response relationship will be developed, and may be used for
more precise and accurate risk assessment.
Significance:
The methods for modeling and correcting measurement errors
developed from this research will apply to ongoing and future
worker radiation studies and analysis of other environmental
exposure-response data.
Manuscripts:
Xue X. Correcting for Measurement Errors in Radiation Exposure.
(DHHS Contract 1R01 CCR215746, Final Performance Report.) Available
from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 16
pgs. PDF version
available. Summary
Report. Xue X, Shore RE [2003]. A Method for Estimating
Occupational Radiation Doses Subject to Minimum Detection Levels.
Health Phys. , 84(1):61-71. Abstract available. Xue X,
Shore RE, Ye X, Kim MY [2004]. Estimating the Dose Response
Relationship for Occupational Radiation Exposure Measured with
Minimum Detection Level. Health Phys. , 87(4):397-404. Abstract available.
-
Measurement Error Methods for
Underground Miner Studies
Grantee: University of Southern California (Dan
Stram, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/95 -5/31/02
Summary:
This study will develop methods to deal with radiation exposure
measurement errors when exposures are extended over time and apply
them in a reanalysis of exposure-time-response (including dose-
rate effects) in lung cancer mortality for uranium miner cohorts in
the Colorado Plateau and New Mexico.
Manuscripts:
Stram DO. Measurement Error Methods for Underground Miner Studies.
(DHHS Contract R01 CCR11869-06, Final Report). Available from the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 4
pgs. PDF version
available. Summary
Report. Langholz B, Thomas D, Xiang A, Stram DO [1999]. Latency
Analysis in Epidemiologic Studies of Occupational Exposures:
Application to the Colorado Plateau Uranium Miners Cohort. Am J Ind
Med. , 35:246-56. Abstract
available. Stram DO, Langholz B, Huberman M, Thomas DC [1999].
Correcting for Exposure Measurement Error in a Reanalysis of Lung
Cancer Mortality for the Colorado Plateau Uranium Miners Cohort.
Health Phys., 77(3):265-75. Abstract
available. Stram DO [2000]. Correcting for Exposure Measurement
Error in Uranium Miners Studies: Impact on Inverse Dose-Rate
Effects. Radiat Res., 154(6):738-39. Stram DO, Kopecky KJ [2002].
Power Analysis of Epidemiological Studies of Radiation-Related
Disease Risk when Dose Estimates are Based on a Complex Dosimetry
System with an Application to the Hanford Thyroid Disease Study.
Radiat Res. , 158(6):797-99. Stram DO, Kopecky KJ [2003]. Power and
Uncertainty Analysis of Epidemiological Studies of
Radiation-Related Disease Risk in which Dose Estimates are Based on
a Complex Dosimetry System: Some Observations. Radiat Res. ,
160:408-17. Abstract
available.
Significance:
The study addresses developing statistical methods for addressing
measurement uncertainty. It may be useful to the Department of
Justice in the disposition of uranium miner compensation
issues.
-
Reconstruction of Doses
for Chernobyl Liquidators
Grantee: International Agency for Research on Cancer (Elisabeth
Cardis, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/99 -12/29/02
Summary:
Two case-control studies were conducted among Chernobyl liquidators
in Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Russia. The study
objective was to estimate the risk of developing
leukemia/non-Hodgkin lymphoma and thyroid cancer from protracted
exposure to low-to-medium (0-500 mSv) radiation dosage.
Manuscripts:
Cardis E [2002]. Reconstruction of Doses for Chernobyl Liquidators
(DHHS Grant 5R01 CC015763-03, NIOSH Closeout Summary). Available
from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 2
pgs. PDF version
available. Summary
Report. Cardis E, Krjuchkov VP, Anspaugh L, Bouville A, Chumak
VV, Drozdovich V, Gavrilin Y, Golovanov I, Hubert P, Illychev S,
Ivanov VK, Kesminiene A, Kurtinaitis J, Maceika E, Malakhova IV,
Mirhaidarov AK, Pitkevitch VA, Stengrevics A, Tekkel M, Tenet V,
Tsykalo A [2003]. Reconstruction of Doses for Chernobyl Liquidators
(Final Performance Report). Available from the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research
Branch, Cincinnati, OH, 53 pgs. PDF version available.
Kesminiene A, Cardis E, Tenet V, Ivanov VK, Kurtinaitis J,
Malakhova I, Stengrevics A, Tekkel M [2002]. Studies of Cancer Risk
Among Chernobyl Liquidators: Materials and Methods. J. Radiol.
Prot. , 22:137-41. Abstract
available.
-
Cohort Mortality Study of Idaho
National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL)
Workers
Project Officer: Mary Schubauer-Berigan,
Ph.D.
Study Period: 1992-2004
Summary:
This study is an all-cause cohort mortality study to evaluate
causes and numbers of deaths among workers at the INEEL facility,
and to determine if and how past radiation exposures were
associated with cancers among INEEL workers. This study
included 63,561 civilian workers employed by the Department of
Energy (DOE), its contractors and subcontractors, or the Naval
Reactors Facility (NRF) at the INEEL at any time between 1949 and
the end of 1991. Causes of death prior to 12/31/1999 were
obtained for deceased workers using the National Death Index and
death certificates. Gamma and neutron radiation doses were
estimated for each worker from individual dosimetry records at the
INEEL and the NRF. Mortality risks for most causes of death were
lower among INEEL workers compared to the regional
population. However, cancer rates were slightly elevated, and
differ by the type of work conducted at the INEEL. While the
results of the study suggest that there may be a relationship
between workplace radiation exposures and the risk of brain tumors,
leukemia, and lymphatic cancers, the numbers were not statistically
significant. The findings provide guidance for further
research needed to determine conclusively if past radiation
exposures were associated with a risk of cancer.
Mortality risks for most causes of death were lower among INEEL
workers compared to the regional population. However, cancer
rates were slightly elevated, and differ by the type of work
conducted at the INEEL. While the results of the study
suggest that there may be a relationship between workplace
radiation exposures and the risk of brain tumors, leukemia, and
lymphatic cancers, the numbers were not statistically
significant. The findings provide guidance for further
research needed to determine conclusively if past radiation
exposures were associated with a risk of cancer.
Manuscripts:
Schubauer-Berigan MK, Macievic GV, Utterback DF, Tseng CY, Flora JT
[2005]. An Epidemiologic Study of Mortality and
Radiation-Related Risk of Cancer Among Workers at the Idaho
National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory, a U.S.
Department of Energy Facility (NIOSH Intramural Study, Final
Report). Available from the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy Research Branch,
Cincinnati, OH, 220 pgs. PDF
version available. Summary
Report.
Significance:
This study of a previously unstudied site was initiated at a
governor's request and from congressional interest. Data from the
study may be used in future studies of this work force.
-
Cohort Mortality Study of Portsmouth
Naval Shipyard, Kittery, Maine
Project Officer: Sharon Silver, M.S.
Study Period: 1993-2004
Summary:
This study was done to evaluate the causes of deaths for all
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNS) workers and to evaluate whether a
relationship exists between exposure to low-level external ionizing
radiation and death from certain cancers.
The study included all 37,853 civilian workers employed at PNS
for at least one day between January 1, 1952 and December 31,
1992. This cohort was divided into three subgroups:
exposed radiation workers, unexposed radiation workers, and
non-radiation-monitored workers. Causes of death were
determined through 1996 for the entire PNS cohort. External
radiation exposure information was collected and verified for each
radiation-monitored worker. Likelihood of smoking and
exposures to asbestos, welding fume and solvents were also
considered in the analysis.
Overall, mortality for the PNS cohort was slightly less than
expected. Several findings differed by subgroup:
elevations in asbestosis deaths were seen only in
radiation-monitored workers, and higher risk of death was observed
for several smoking-related causes of death among
non-radiation-monitored workers. A dose-response association
was observed between external ionizing radiation exposure and
leukemia mortality, but not lung cancer, after including
information about other exposures.
Manuscript:
Daniels RD, Taulbee TD, Chen P [2004]. Radiation exposure
assessment for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard health studies. Radiat
Prot Dosimetry, 111(2):139-150. Source for article:
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Silver SR, Daniels RD, Taulbee TD, et al. [2004].
Differences in Mortality by Radiation Monitoring Status in an
Expanded Cohort of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Workers. JOEM ,
46(7):677-689. Abstract
available.
Yiin JH, Schubauer-Berigan MK, Silver SR, Daniels RD, Kinnes GM,
Zaebst DD, Couch JR, Kubale TL, Chen P-H [2005]. Risk of Lung
Cancer and Leukemia from Exposure to Ionizing Radiation and
Potential Confounders among Workers at the Portsmouth Naval
Shipyard. Rad Res. , 163:603-613. Abstract available. Summary report.
Significance:
This study is part of an ongoing program of research to evaluate
whether occupational exposures are associated with adverse health
effects among workers at U.S. nuclear facilities. The PNS
study is part of an ongoing research effort involving partnership
between NIOSH, the U.S. Navy, PNS employees and the U.S. Department
of Energy.
-
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNS)
Leukemia Case-Control Study
Project Officer: Travis Kubale, Ph.D.
Award Period: 1996-2005
Summary:
This study analyzed the relationship between external ionizing
radiation and leukemia mortality among civilian employees of the
PNS to help determine whether occupational exposures to radiation
were associated with a risk for leukemia. Exposure
assessments for benzene and carbon tetrachloride were also
completed since these chemicals might also cause
leukemia.
The study population included 115 PNS employees who had died
from leukemia. They were compared with a total of 460 other
PNS workers who served as controls. All workers in this study
were selected from the 37,853 civilians employed at the Shipyard
for at least one day between January 1, 1952 and December 31,
1992. Thirty-four of the leukemia cases and 167 controls were
monitored for ionizing radiation exposures while employed at
PNS.
The case-control study results suggest that leukemia mortality
risk increased with increasing cumulative occupational ionizing
radiation dose among PNS workers. The magnitude of increase
in leukemia risk is consistent with other radiation epidemiology
study results. Workers potentially exposed to benzene or
carbon tetrachloride for longer periods of time also appear to have
greater risk of death from leukemia. Uncertainty in the risk
estimates, i.e., the rather wide confidence intervals, is
attributed to the relatively small number of leukemia deaths (34)
among radiation-monitored workers and reliance on job titles and
shops to estimate benzene and carbon tetrachloride exposures
instead of individual monitoring results for these chemicals.
Manuscript:
Kubale TL, Daniels RD, Yiin JH, Kinnes GM, Couch JR,
Schubauer-Berigan MK, Silver SR, Nowlin SJ, Chen P-H [2004].
A Nested Case-Control Study of Leukemia and Ionizing Radiation at
the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Cincinnati, OH: National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Health-Related Energy
Research Branch; DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-104; 182
pgs. PDF version
available.
Summary report.
Yiin-JH; Schubauer-Berigan-MK; Silver-SR; Daniels-RD; Kinnes-GA;
Zaebst-DD; Couch-JR; Kubale-TL; Chen-PH, Kubale TL, Spitz HB
[2005]. Radiation exposure from work-related medical x-rays at the
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Am J Indust Med ., 47:206-216
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Daniels RD, Taulbee TD, Chen P [2004]. Radiation exposure
assessment for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard health studies .
Radiat Prot Dosimetry , 111(2):139-150
NIOSHTIC-2 Abstract
Yiin JH, Schubauer-Berigan MK, Silver SR, Daniels RD, Kinnes GM,
Zaebst DD, Couch JR, Kubale TL, Chen P-H [2005]. Risk of Lung
Cancer and Leukemia from Exposure to Ionizing Radiation and
Potential Confounders among Workers at the Portsmouth Naval
Shipyard. Rad Res. , 163:603-613. Abstract available. Summary report.
Significance:
This study is part of an ongoing program of research to evaluate
whether occupational exposures are associated with adverse health
effects among workers at U.S. nuclear facilities. The PNS
studies were completed through the partnership of NIOSH, the U.S.
Navy, PNS employees, and the U.S. Department of Energy.
-
International Collaborative Study of
Nuclear Industry Workers
Awardee: International Agency for Research on
Cancer (IARC) (Elisabeth Cardis, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 4/1/95-6/30/01
Summary:
This report examines cancer mortality among more than 400,000
nuclear industry workers in 15 countries including workers from
three U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) facilities: Hanford,
the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and the Idaho National
Laboratory (formerly called Idaho National Engineering and
Environmental Laboratory; INEEL). The three DOE sites were
selected for inclusion by IARC study subcommittees because workers
at those sites were exposed to primarily external sources of
radiation and the data were readily available.
The IARC study found that radiation exposure was significantly
associated with risk of death from non-leukemia cancer.
Results for leukemia were inconclusive, but suggest a positive
association with workplace radiation exposure. The report
does not contradict the findings of the previous NIOSH INEEL study
(Schubauer-Berigan, et al. 2004). (Cooperative Agreement 1R01
CCR014477-01)
Manuscript:
Cardis E, Vrijheid M, Blettner M, et al. [2005]. Cancer Risk
Following Low Doses of Ionizing Radiation - A 15-country
Study. BMJ, doi:10.1136/bmj.38499.599861.E0. Abstract available. Summary Report.
Significance:
This is the largest study of nuclear workers ever done. It involves
collaboration among 15 countries and with The World Health
Organization (WHO)/IARC.
-
Ionizing Radiation and Mortality Among Hanford
Workers
Grantee: University of North Carolina (Steven
Wing, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1996-2003
Summary:
This study examined whether there are associations between
occupational exposure to external ionizing radiation and mortality,
particularly from cancer, among workers employed at the Hanford
Site.
The study included 26,389 employees of prime contractors who
were hired at the Hanford site between 1944 and 1978 and monitored
for ionizing radiation exposures during employment.
This study suggests that external radiation exposures of Hanford
workers at ages 55 and older increased their risks of dying from
lung cancer. However, the possible contributions of plutonium
and smoking to this risk could not be directly estimated due to
limitations in the available information. (DHHS Grant # 3R01
CC412931-03)
Manuscripts:
Richardson D., Wing S, Watson J, Wolf S [1999]. Missing
Annual External Radiation Dosimetry Data Among Hanford
Workers. J of Exp Analysis and Environ Epi. ,
9:575-585. Abstract
available.
Richardson D, Wing S, Watson J, Wolf S [2000]. Evaluation
of Annual External Radiation Doses at Values Near Minimum Detection
Levels of Dosimeters at the Hanford Nuclear Facility. J of
Exp Analysis and Environ Epi. , 10:27-35. Abstract
available.
Wing S, Richardson D, Stewart A [1999]. The Relevance of
Occupational Epidemiology to Radiation Protection Standards.
New Solutions. 9(2):133-151. Abstract available.
Wing S, Richardson DB [2005]. Age at Exposure to Ionizing
Radiation and Cancer Mortality Among Hanford Workers:
Follow-up Through 1994. Occup and Environ Med. ,
62:465-472. Abstract
available. Summary
report.
Wing S, Richardson D, Wolf S, Mihlan G [2004].
Plutonium-Related Work and Cause-Specific Mortality at the U.S.
Department of Energy Hanford Site. Am J of Ind. Med. ,
45:153-164. Abstract available.
Significance: Update of important previous cohort study (increased
time of observation). Application of new methodologies for
epidemiologic analyses.
-
Chronic Beryllium Disease Among Beryllium-Exposed
Workers
Awardee: Michigan State University (Kenneth
Rosenman, M.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/95-01/01/2005
Summary:
This cross-sectional study of 1000 workers at 2 plants will examine
the natural history of chronic beryllium disease and evaluate the
utility of the lymphocyte transformation test in detecting
beryllium sensitization and predicting chronic beryllium disease
development. The effectiveness of medical treatment of sensitized
workers and of control measures in preventing overt chronic
beryllium disease will also be evaluated. Significance: This study
characterizes disease process and a health outcome other than
cancer. It is a morbidity study that is pertinent to current
workers and applicable to surveillance.
Manuscripts:
Rosenman K, Hertzberg V, Rice C, Reilly MJ, Aronchick J, Parker
JE, Regovich J, Rossman M [2005]. Chronic beryllium disease and
sensitization at a beryllium processing facility. Environ Health
Perspect, 113(10):1366-72.
Rosenman-KD; Rossman-MD; Reily-MJ; Bush-A; Hertzberg-V;
Regovich-J; Aronchick-J; Parker-J; Rice-C [2002] Predictors of
Chronic Beryllium Disease and Sensitization. Am J Respir Crit Care
Med, 2002 Apr 165(8)(Suppl):A48 RosenmanRossman_2002.pdf
Significance:
This cross-sectional study of 1,000 workers at two DOE plants will
examine the natural history of chronic beryllium disease and
evaluate the utility of the lymphocyte transformation test in
detecting beryllium sensitization and predicting chronic beryllium
disease development. The effectiveness of medical treatment of
sensitized workers and of control measures in preventing overt
chronic beryllium disease will also be evaluated.
-
Beryllium Disease Natural History
and Exposure Response
Awardee: National Jewish Medical and Research
Center (Lee Newman, M.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/95-01/01/2005
Summary:
This investigation will determine the natural history of beryllium
sensitization and sub-clinical chronic beryllium disease and
identify beryllium compounds and processes associated with chronic
beryllium disease. Exposure-response relationships for both
sensitization and chronic beryllium disease will also be
determined. Exposure assessment is underway at an Alabama plant
where take-home toxicants are being assessed for 60 employees.
Significance: This study characterizes the disease process and
evaluates intervention methods. It describes a health outcome other
than cancer. It is a morbidity study that is pertinent to current
workers and applicable to surveillance.
Significance:
This investigation will determine the natural history of beryllium
sensitization and subclinical chronic beryllium disease and
identify beryllium compounds and processes associated with chronic
beryllium disease. Exposure-response relationships for both
sensitization and chronic beryllium disease will also be
determined.
Manuscripts:
Newman-LS; Mroz-MM; Maier-LA; Daniloff-EM; Balkissoon-R [2001]
Efficacy of serial medical surveillance for chronic beryllium
disease in a beryllium machining plant. J Occup Environ Med 2001
Mar; 43(3):231-237 http://www.joem.org/
Newman LS, Mroz MM, Balkissoon R, et al. [2005] Beryllium
sensitization progresses to chronic beryllium disease - A
longitudinal study of disease risk
A J R C C 171 (1): 54-60
Lundgren RA, Maier LA, Rose CS, Balkissoon RC, Newman LS [2001].
Indirect and direct gas exchange at maximum exercise in beryllium
sensitization and disease. Chest. 2001 Nov;120(5):1702-8. Erratum
in: Chest 2002 Mar;121(3):1009.
Martyny JW, Hoover MD, Mroz MM, Ellis K, Maier LA, Sheff KL,
Newman LS [2000]. Aerosols generated during beryllium machining. J
Occup Environ Med, 42(1):8-18.
Kelleher PC, Martyny JW, Mroz MM, Maier LA, Ruttenber AJ, Young
DA, Newman LS [2001]. Beryllium particulate exposure and disease
relations in a beryllium machining plant. J Occup Environ Med,
43(3):238-49.
Sanderson WT, Henneberger PK, Martyny J, Ellis K, Mroz MM,
Newman LS [1999]. Beryllium contamination inside vehicles of
machine shop workers. Appl Occup Environ Hyg, 14(4):223-30.
Tan-Wilhelm D, Witte K, Liu WY, Newman LS, Janssen A, Ellison C,
Yancey A, Sanderson W, Henneberger PK [2000]. Impact of a worker
notification program: assessment of attitudinal and behavioral
outcomes. Am J Ind Med. 2000 Feb;37(2):205-13.
Newman LS [2002]. Final performance report: Beryllium disease
natural history and exposure-response. Denver, CO: Division of
Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Jewish
Medical and Research Center, Department of Medicine and Department
of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, University of Colorado
School of Medicine; 17 pgs. (Cooperative Agreement #
U60/CCU812221-05).
NIOSHTC-2 Final Report
-
Dose of Beryllium Causing
Sensitization and Disease
Grantee: National Jewish Medical and Research
Center (Lee S. Newman, M.D.)
Award Period: 1999-2003
Summary:
This research aims to determine the personal beryllium dose that
produces beryllium sensitization and chronic beryllium disease in
beryllium machinists, and to characterize the beryllium aerosol and
lung deposition that produce beryllium sensitization and chronic
beryllium disease in these individuals.
Significance:
This research will influence prevention by providing data on which
to base a new beryllium exposure standard and help direct
engineering and industrial hygiene practices to reduce
exposure.
Manuscripts:
Infante PF, Newman LS. Beryllium exposure and chronic beryllium
disease [2004]. Lancet. Feb 7;363(9407):415-6.
Newman LS [2005]. Dose of beryllium causing beryllium
sensitization and disease. Denver, CO: Division of Environmental
and Occupational Health Sciences, National Jewish Medical and
Research Center, Department of Medicine and Department of
Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, University of Colorado School
of Medicine; 20 pgs. (Grant-Number-R01-CCR-815751).
NIOSHTIC-2 Final Report
-
Analysis for Characterizing Plutonium Exposure
to Improve Lung Cancer Risk Estimates
Grantee: University of Colorado (James
Ruttenber, Ph.D.)
Award Period: 1999-2002
Summary:
This research will explore important issues of measurement errors
in quantifying exposures and their effects on risk estimates in
epidemiologic studies.
Significance:
This research will benefit future epidemiologic studies by: (1)
developing and exploring methods to assess the measurement of
radiation doses, (2) developing methods for analyzing exposure data
from different sources, and (3) evaluating current methods and
developing new ones for incorporating of measurement error
estimates for radiation doses into risk estimates
Manuscript:
Shannon C. Brown1 , Margaret F. Schonbeck2,
David McClure3, Anna E. Barón3,
William C. Navidi,4, Tim Byers3 and A. James
Ruttenber3
1 Department of Health
Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns
Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
2 Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Denver,
CO.
3 Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, Health Sciences
Center, University of Colorado, Denver, CO.
4 Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Colorado School
of Mines, Golden, CO.
[2004]. Lung Cancer and Internal Lung Doses among Plutonium Workers
at the Rocky Flats Plant: A Case-Control Study. American Journal of
Epi.,160:163-172.
http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/160/2/163
External Link:
http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/160/2/163
-
Occupational Energy Research Program -
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number 2001-133
Study Period: 1999-2000
Summary:
This NIOSH Number Publication
provides information about the Health-related Energy Research
Branch (HERB) research during 1999-2000 . All of the aspects
of the Occupational Energy Research Program during this period are
explained. The reader will find information addressing studies
conducted internally by NIOSH staff and studies conducted
externally through NIOSH-supported contracts, grants, and
cooperative agreements.
Manuscript:
Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS), The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) Division of
Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies (DSHEFS) ,
Health-Related Energy Research Branch (HERB) [2001]. Occupational Energy
Research Program - DHHS (NIOSH) Publication Number
2001-133
Significance:
This record of epidemiologic
and exposure assessment studies by the HERB and its research
partners serves as a historic compendium of Department of Energy
worker studies.
-
Sentinel Exposure Event Surveillance/Evaluation at DOE
Sites (Grant 1 R01 CCR8120441)
Grantee: University of Colorado (James
Ruttenber, M.D.)
Award Period: 9/30/95–9/29/99
Summary:
To 1) develop a system of methods and integrated computer software
for use at Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear weapons production
plants, as well as plants undergoing decommissioning and
decontamination, to systematically evaluate employees’
potential occupational exposures to chemicals and ionizing
radiation, and 2) identify important components of those systems
and to develop strategies to resolve barriers that hamper their
adoption. This effort involved the use of information from the
Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site (RFETS, also known as
Rocky Flats or the Rocky Flats Plant).
Manuscripts:
LaMontagne AD, Herrick RF,
VanDyke MV, Martyny JW, Ruttenber AJ [2002]. Exposure databases and
exposure surveillance: promise and practice. AIHA J,
63:205-212.
LaMontagne AD, VanDyke MV, Martyny JW, Simpson MW, Holwager LA,
Clausen BM, Ruttenber AJ [2002]. Development and piloting of an
exposure database and surveillance system for DOE cleanup
operations. AIHA Journal, 63:213-224.
VanDyke MV, LaMontagne AD, Martyny JW, Ruttenber AJ [2001].
Development of an exposure database and surveillance system for use
by practicing OSH professionals. Appl Occup Environ Hyg,
16(2):135-143.
Ruttenber AJ, McCrea JS, Wade TD, Schonbeck MF, LaMontagne AD,
VanDyke MV, Martyny JW [2001]. Integrating workplace exposure
databases for occupational medicine services and epidemiologic
studies at a former nuclear weapons facility. Appl Occup Environ
Hyg, 16(2):192-200.
LaMontagne AD, VanDyke MV, Martyny JW, Ruttenber AJ [2001].
Cleanup worker exposures to hazardous chemicals at a former nuclear
weapons plant: piloting of an exposure surveillance system. Appl
Occup Environ Hyg, 16(2):284-290.
LaMontagne AD, Ruttenber AJ, Wegman DH [2000]. Exposure
surveillance for chemical and physical hazards. In Maizlish N, ed.
Workplace Health Surveillance: Principles & Practice. New York:
Oxford University Press, pp. 219-234.
NIOSH/DSHEFS/HERB one page summary report: 06-SEES.pdf
Significance:
The research investigators report that the collection of job task
descriptions and the integration of these data with exposure data
is the most important standardized component of exposure
surveillance. Organizational support for interpretation of exposure
data is vital to reduce ongoing exposures for certain job tasks,
even though exposures may be below regulatory limits. With modern
computer hardware and software, the cost and time to implement such
systems is relatively modest. Six articles were published
presenting the work conducted under this grant. The authors
indicate that this system should be broadly applicable to DOE sites
and in general industry.