North Carolina State University in Raleigh is investigating student and alumni exposure to concerning levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in one of its campus buildings that was officially shut down in November. More than 150 cancer cases in individuals who attended classes at Poe Hall have been reported, with PCB levels detected at over 38 times the EPA’s standards in five rooms within the building. Alumni like Christie Lewis, who attended between 2007 and 2012 and was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and angiosarcoma while in school, have shared their experiences of health issues potentially linked to exposure in Poe Hall.
Other alumni, such as Jennifer Walter who attended between 2004 and 2007 and was subsequently diagnosed with thyroid cancer and synovial sarcoma, have also shared their stories. Walter described her symptoms as debilitating fatigue and joint pain, impacting her daily life significantly. The fear and anxiety surrounding her medical conditions are ongoing, as she faces the statistics and uncertainties associated with sarcoma. Both Lewis and Walter have expressed concerns about the long-lasting impacts of their diagnoses on their lives and health.
NC State has shut down Poe Hall and launched an investigation into the contaminants present in the building. The university has created a webpage to provide updates on the investigation and continues to analyze testing results. Chancellor Randy Woodson has stated the university’s commitment to ensuring safety on campus. Health officials began sampling Poe Hall in October, and initial results have been shared on the university’s website. A webinar with epidemiologists discussed the challenges of defining cancer clusters and investigating potential links between the cancer cases and the building.
The investigation has led to speculation about possible litigation against Monsanto, the company that produced materials containing PCBs used in the construction of Poe Hall. The presence of PCBs in buildings constructed between 1971 and 1979, when their use was common, has raised concerns about the potential for more cases of contamination on NC State’s campus. Alumni like Lewis and Walter feel violated and anxious about the lasting impacts of their exposures, particularly in relation to their families and future generations. They emphasize the importance of seeking answers and accountability for the health risks they may have unknowingly faced.
As the investigation continues, NC State has pledged to remain transparent and prioritize the safety of its students and staff. The university is working with outside experts and health authorities to address the concerns related to PCB contamination and potential health risks. Alumni like Lewis and Walter hope for a thorough investigation and accountability for any harm caused by exposure to hazardous substances. The cases reported at Poe Hall serve as a reminder of the importance of environmental safety and health monitoring in educational and workplace settings to prevent similar incidents in the future.
