Fracking linked to lymphomas and asthma in new study.

Fracking linked to lymphomas and asthma in new study.

The Potential Dangers of Natural Gas Wells: A Closer Look at Childhood Health Problems

Research into a possible link between childhood health problems and natural gas wells in western Pennsylvania is wrapping up with some answers. Children who lived near these wells were more likely to develop rare lymphoma, the research found. In addition, residents of all ages near the wells had an increased risk of severe asthma reactions.

The findings, released at a public meeting at Pennsylvania Western University, have raised concerns among experts. Raina Rippel, former director of the Southwest Pennsylvania Environmental Health Project, called them the “tip of the toxic iceberg.” She warned that there is much more cancer waiting in the wings, highlighting the need for further research and preventive measures.

This four-year, taxpayer-funded, $2.5 million study by the University of Pittsburgh was commissioned by former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf in response to the concerns raised by families of pediatric cancer patients. The study aimed to shed light on the potential health hazards associated with natural gas wells.

The researchers found that close proximity to gas wells significantly increased the risk of lymphoma in children. Children who lived within 1 mile of a well had five to seven times the risk of developing lymphoma compared to children living at least 5 miles away. This means that for kids living near the wells, the rate of lymphoma was estimated to be between 60 and 84 children per million, compared to 12 per million for those living farther away.

Another concerning finding was the association between severe asthma and gas extraction activities. The study showed that residents experienced more asthma attacks during gas extraction, but not during other stages like building, drilling, or fracking wells. This link to severe asthma has been described as a “bombshell” by the president of Physicians for Social Responsibility, Dr. Edward Ketyer. He emphasized that previous studies have consistently shown an increased risk of illnesses for those living close to fracking activities.

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However, it is crucial to note that the study could not definitively conclude that drilling caused lymphoma and asthma in children. Although the research found an association, further investigation is needed to establish a direct causal relationship. Despite this, the results highlight the need for heightened awareness and regulation in areas near gas wells.

Interestingly, the study did not find a link between brain and bone cancers and gas drilling, despite the presence of an incredibly rare form of bone cancer called Ewing sarcoma amongst children and young adults in heavily drilled areas outside Pittsburgh.

The release of these findings has led to a renewed focus on public health in Pennsylvania. Current Gov. Josh Shapiro assured the public that his administration is working to improve public health in response to these studies.

While the gas industry asserts that fracking is safe, the findings have prompted numerous states to strengthen laws surrounding fracking and waste disposal. Fracking has catapulted the United States into a global oil and gas superpower, thanks to high-volume hydraulic fracturing and drilling. However, the potential health risks associated with these activities cannot be ignored.

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the potential health hazards associated with natural gas wells in western Pennsylvania. While more research is needed to confirm the direct link between drilling and childhood illnesses, the findings raise legitimate concerns and call for increased attention to public health in areas near such wells. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of communities and ensure rigorous regulations are in place to mitigate the potential risks associated with gas extraction activities.

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