Document RjRpEVrYe8bkJEyjmKLBpzvZa

/ t fi ^ 1' THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY TEXAS CIVISION rRECPOKT TXA3 773*1 May 13, 1968 R. L. Buell B-1201 RE: Insulators We have done annual periodic examinations on the insulators since 1960. The examination is directed primarily to the lungs and consists of chest x-rays, ventilatory measurements (pulmonary function) hematocrit, ECG, and examination of heart and lungs by a physician. The concern of the Union about the welfare of their men is a just one and has come about probably because of the wave of cases that has hit the medical literature recently. The incidence of the usual type lung cancer is much higher in asbestos workers who smoke - the smoking and asbestos expo sure seem to be additive. There is an unusual type of cancer effecting the lining of the chest and abdominal cavities called mesothelioma which is due to asbestos exposure. Any asbestos* worker's death due to mesothelioma would be con sidered due to asbestos exposure until proven otherwise. 1 appreciate Mr. Kinsel's concern about whether the insulators are'being examined periodically but I gather from the tone of his letter that he is not concerned from a humanitarian view point. As a matter of interest one of the union agents for the insu lators stated he heard a calk by a physician at a union meeting which seemed out of place judging from the words of this union agent. The talk seemed to be a scare-type talk and was either misinterpreted by the audience or misinformation was given out. I hope this may be of help to you. REF'.mfr R R. E. Flake, A. D. Industrial Medicine ST0583215