What are some of the uses for the metals that were mined at the Tar Creek mining area?
HOWARD: The Tar Creek mining area was a source of metals for our nation’s industries and our armaments for many decades. A lot of the ammunition that was used in World War Two, in fact, had its origins in metal mines of Tar Creek. Interviewer: Other than educating the public, as you said, are there any other things we can do to mitigate the hazards of the mine waste? HOWARD: I am hopeful that our research will allow us to better target interventions for people, including those who are living in the worst areas of mining waste. Among the interventions may be nutritional interventions emphasizing various nutrients that may decrease absorption of toxic metals that may mitigate the ultimate toxic affects. Avoidance of some lifestyles, whether it’s food sources or behaviors that will increase exposure. And, if necessary, drug treatments that can reduce metal levels in the body or at key target organs to improve outcomes. Those are all possible interventions in an area where the exposures ar
