An historical example of selective publication with contemporary implications: lead smelter workers and cancer

Abstract

Introduction: In 1965, geochemist Claire Patterson published a seminal article arguing that US residents were subjected to “severe chronic lead insult” from environmental pollution. Patterson’s article posed a challenge to the lead industry, which, in mid-1960s, was increasingly finding itself under assault. This article provides a snapshot of discussions occurring inside a large US mining and smelting company (ASARCO) in response to this challenge.

Methods: This paper draws on internal industry documents turned over as part of the discovery process in a class action lawsuit. Internal company discussions of research on lead exposed workers are contextualized and discussed.

Findings: The documents demonstrate that Patterson’s thesis was of concern to ASARCO, and company scientists were studying lead exposed workers. ASARCO scientists internally discussed suppressing findings that such workers showed excess mortality from cancer. Subsequent studies have reported similar findings. Selective publication may slow or impede scientific advancement and harm workers.

Keywords:

• Lead
• Occupational health
• Publication bias
• Industry influence