A Pennsylvania study found a possible link between fracking and lymphoma diagnoses in children. Specifically, results found that children who lived closer to natural gas wells were more likely to develop lymphoma.
The study was conducted by the University of Pittsburgh and follows other research linking fracking and numerous health problems. The state funded the four-year study alongside a study investigating fracking and asthma.
The University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health and the state Department of Health released results of both reports at Pennsylvania Western University.
Results revealed that children who lived within one mile of a gas well were five to seven times more likely to develop lymphoma in comparison to those who had no wells within five miles of their homes. Researchers noted this study found no association between fracking and leukemia, brain cancer, or bone cancer.
Preterm births, lower birth weights, and higher cancer rates are among the multiple health concerns being investigated for a possible link to fracking.
Source: University of Pittsburgh, August 3, 2023. Associated Press, August 16, 2023.
