Flock worker’s lung was a condition that arose within workers of a Rhode Island plant that processed nylon flock. Nylon flock are short, plastic fibres used to make velvet-like materials used in upholstery, blankets, and clothing. These workers were three times more likely to develop lung cancer than other people in the area who didn’t work at the plant. When some of the dead workers’ lungs were examined, scientists found nylon fibres lodged in the lung tissue, making this the first known case of microplastics causing cancer in humans. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
