Multiple nurses working on same floor at Boston-area hospital develop brain tumors
At least five nurses working on the same floor of a Boston-area hospital have been diagnosed with brain tumors, sparking concerns and calls for answers. The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) is actively supporting the nurses at Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Newton, who have raised serious medical concerns regarding brain tumor diagnoses on the 5th floor maternity unit.
The MNA is leading an independent, scientific investigation into the diagnoses to determine any potential causes or links. The union is working with the hospital’s division of health and safety, consisting of occupational health nurses, to conduct a thorough examination. The investigation is still ongoing and may take additional weeks to complete.
In response to the nurses’ concerns, the MNA has received over 300 survey responses, emails, and phone calls from current and former nurses, as well as other hospital employees, regarding their health concerns. This outpouring of feedback highlights the urgency and importance of addressing the situation promptly.
Newton-Wellesley Hospital conducted its own examination in December, which found that 11 staff members who had worked on the fifth floor of the hospital had been interviewed by the hospital’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) team. The hospital determined that five cases were benign brain tumors of three different types, while six cases were not brain tumors but other health concerns.
Despite these findings, the hospital stated that there were no environmental risks identified that could be linked to the development of brain tumors. The review did raise concerns about radiation exposure from X-rays performed with portable machines on the fifth floor, but the hospital assured that appropriate safety measures were in place to minimize any potential risks.
The MNA emphasized the importance of a comprehensive investigation and transparency in sharing findings with the affected nurses. While the hospital’s initial review may not have been exhaustive, the MNA is committed to ensuring that the nurses receive the support and information they deserve.
As the investigation continues, both the MNA and Newton-Wellesley Hospital are dedicated to addressing the concerns raised by the nurses and ensuring the health and well-being of all staff, clinicians, and patients. Transparency and communication will be key in moving forward and providing answers to the affected nurses and their families.
