I have lingered around this forum long enough to hear suggestions or even outright statements regarding wood dust and the potentially harmful effects on our lungs, skin, or _________? What I am most interested in is the chronic (long-term) conditions one may develop with close contact, i.e. cancer, etc.
So.....what I want to know is..........what are the facts? Not one man's opinion or maybe someone's conjecture. What and where is the evidence? I'm talking about peer reviewed scientific research. Maybe a better question might be if this has been researched at all?
I'm also looking for personal stories. Has anyone in the SMC clan developed cancer from lifelong dust exposure?
Furthermore, are there risk factors that exacerbate the situation, i.e., previous pnuemonia, smoking, etc.?
If there is solid evidence that points to increased risk, then which wood species are inherently safest? Which are the most risky?
And finally, if this risk is real, are there proven methods that reduce our risk?
I have a scientific background, and my vocation requires me to work daily with heightened risk factors, and evaluate each factor based on the best science available. Call me skeptical, but my impression is that there is alot of observational history running around posing as peer reviewed science. There is too much speculation and not enough "just the facts, maam". Am I wrong? I really want to know.
Are there others with these same lingering questions? I love WWing, and hope it will provide me years of enjoyment in return.
Arnie