Document pzBwwYZOoLw3MDOLoKMnYazk

OFFICIAL FILE COPY riLC AUTM_________________ .. CALL UP. TEMP. Pitt CAPTION. Dr. John F. Finklea, Director National Institute of Occupational Safety G Health Parklavm Bldg. ... 5600 Fisher Lane \ Rockville, Maryland 20014 . 24 June 1976 ` . - Dear Dr. Finkleai ' .- ' ' - Enclosed you will find information from one of our employee health surveillance programs that suggests a possible association of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) during a period from 1949-58 and . cancer (specifically, melanoma and pancreatic cancer). We are aware that at least one of these chlorinated hydrocarbons (Arochlor 1254) has been shown to be carcinogenic by oral adminis tration in two species of experimental animals (mice, rats). To the best of our knowledge, there have been no prior reports implicating human cancer during the manufacture or industrial use of PCB's. . A preliminary evaluation of our small cohort suggests the overall cancer v~- incidence observed is higher than for the population at large, but does not exceed the expected death rate for chemists. However, because of the possible occupational health significance of these preliminary findings, we call this to your attention in connection with your investigation of more extensive and longer term industrial PCB exposure. .. . - -` . Yours truly. Harry A. Sinclaire, M.D. Medical Director HAS: jd Enclosure . -, > ' 1 ' DSW 308177 STLCOPCB4070046