Controversy Stirs as Reports of Cancers Linked to NC State Building Emerge: Unraveling the Situation

Reports of potential cancer links to a North Carolina State University building, Poe Hall, shut down in November due to environmental contaminants, have sparked controversy. Local media outlets, including WRAL, have received over 100 reports of cancer cases related to Poe Hall. The university’s faculty voted on a symbolic no-confidence motion against university leaders, citing mishandling of the contamination. A dispute emerged between university and federal officials regarding the halting of a federal evaluation into the building, with the CDC stating that NC State requested a “pause,” but the university claims the agency opted to close the evaluation. The situation is ongoing, with no definitive evidence linking reported illnesses directly to Poe Hall and the contaminants. Geosyntec, a third-party consultant, will continue evaluating the building.

Key Facts:

• Poe Hall was closed in November after elevated levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were discovered.
• Local media reports suggest a potential “breast cancer cluster,” prompting faculty concerns and a no-confidence vote.
• Dispute arises over the halting of a federal Health Hazard Evaluation, with the CDC stating a “pause” at NC State’s request, while the university claims the CDC chose to close the evaluation.
• Ongoing evaluations by a third-party consultant will include additional assessments with the HVAC system on and an analysis of potential human health effects.

What to Watch For:

• Further developments in the evaluation of Poe Hall and its potential health impact.
• Resolution or escalation of the dispute between NC State and federal agencies.
• Findings from the ongoing third-party evaluation regarding environmental conditions and potential health effects.

Key Background:

• Poe Hall, constructed around 1971, came under scrutiny after elevated PCB levels were found.
• The university has relocated more than 230 classes for over 4,000 students since Poe Hall’s closure.
• Law firm Milberg is investigating the situation and potential cancer cases.