People working at or living near fracking sites are found to have higher concentrations of toxic chemicals in their bodies.
Researchers have detected volatile organic compounds from fracking sites in Pavilion, Wyoming in the bodies of nearby residents at levels as much as 10 times the national average, according to an article at Global Research. The study, titled, “When the Wind Blows: Tracking Toxic Chemicals in Gas Fields and Impacted Communities,” combined air monitoring methods with new biomonitoring techniques.
VOCs like toluene and benzene are reportedly linked to illnesses including cancer, reproductive and developmental disorders, respiratory problems, headaches, nosebleeds and skin rashes. Residents in the affected area had complained of a rise in health issues and a foul taste and odor in their drinking water dating back to 2008, according to the article. Because VOCs exist in products and homes, the researchers say it’s possible some of the toxins in participants' bodies may have come from these sources. Study leaders are reportedly calling for additional testing of people living or working near oil and gas sites.
