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Temporal variability of tungsten and cobalt in Fallon, Nevada
Paul R Sheppard1, Robert J Speakman, Gary Ridenour
1Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA. sheppard@ltrr.arizona.edu
Childhood leukemia in Fallon, Nevada, may be linked to elevated tungsten and cobalt levels. Tree ring analysis (dendrochemistry) revealed increased tungsten before the cluster
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Toxicology
- Pediatric oncology
Background:
- Fallon, Nevada, has a unique childhood leukemia cluster since 1997.
- Elevated airborne tungsten and cobalt have been previously detected in Fallon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal trends of tungsten and cobalt in Fallon.
- To determine if metal concentrations correlate with the childhood leukemia cluster onset.
Main Methods:
- Dendrochemistry was employed to analyze element concentrations in tree rings.
- The methodology was validated using a test case in Sweet Home, Oregon.
Main Results:
- Dendrochemistry accurately reflects temporal tungsten variability.
- Tungsten levels in Fallon increased in the mid-1990s, preceding the leukemia cluster.
- Cobalt levels have remained high for approximately 15 years.
Conclusions:
- A temporal link exists between elevated tungsten/cobalt and the childhood leukemia cluster.
- Further biomedical research is needed to establish a direct causal relationship.
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