Another Newton-Wellesley Hospital staffer reports brain tumor

Health

Six staff members have now reported developing non-cancerous brain tumors after working on the fifth floor for “varying durations,” the Newton hospital said.

By Abby Patkin

April 14, 2025 | 4:15 PM

1 minute to read

Another Newton-Wellesley Hospital staff member reportedly developed a benign brain tumor after working on the hospital’s fifth floor, bringing the total cases to six, according to hospital leadership.

Newton-Wellesley previously confirmed five nurses from the same floor had been diagnosed with non-cancerous brain tumors, while another six staff members working on the floor reported “other health concerns.” 

Now, the Mass General Brigham Department of Occupational Health and Safety has identified a total of six staff members who said they developed benign brain tumors after working on the fifth floor for “varying durations,” Newton-Wellesley President and COO Ellen A. Moloney said in a recent update. 

However, she said the hospital “found no evidence that these medical conditions were caused by the work environment.”

According to Moloney, the MGB Department of Occupational Health and Safety investigation is being led by a “multi-disciplinary group of experts,” including several independent firms. The analysis has involved interviews with impacted staff, a review of air and water quality, and testing for potential radiation, chemical, or pharmaceutical exposures, she said. 

“Based on the results of this rigorous ongoing investigation, we can assure you that no environmental risks have been identified at our hospital,” Moloney said.

The reported cases of benign brain tumors among staff occurred “over many years,” she noted. 

The Massachusetts Nurses Association previously told Boston.com its division of health and safety is also investigating the claims.

“We are engaging with the hospital about their inquiry. They only spoke to a small number of nurses and their environmental testing was not comprehensive,” the MNA’s statement read. “The hospital cannot make this issue go away by attempting to provide a predetermined conclusion.”

Addressing patients and families in her update, Moloney emphasized the hospital’s focus on safety. 

“As always, your health, wellbeing, and safety — along with that of our employees — remain our top priority,” she said. “While there has been a great deal of misinformation shared on social media and in other forums, we want to make sure you have the facts.”