The study described in this news story found a link between living near oil and gas development sites and poor mental health outcomes in women trying to conceive. Published in the American Journal of Public Health, the research indicates that people residing within six miles (9.6 km) of active fossil fuel extraction were more likely to experience moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms compared to those living further away. High perceived stress levels were particularly noted among individuals living as close as 1.25 miles (2 km) to these sites, with the intensity of oil and gas production exacerbating the stress.
Other studies have similarly expressed concern about the health risks resulting from so-called hydraulic fracturing – commonly known as fracking – a technique for obtaining oil and gas from shale rock. Sometimes referred to as ‘unconventional oil and gas development’, the process involves drilling into the earth and directing a high-pressure mixture of water, sand, and chemicals at rock. While governments commonly claim the process poses little or no risk to public health, the truth is the exact opposite. Studies have demonstrated clear links between fracking and cancer, heart attack, adverse birth outcomes, and numerous other negative health effects.
To learn more about the dangers of fracking, see this article on our website.
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July 25, 2024Living Near Oil and Gas Activity Linked to Poor Mental Health During Preconception
News
As the oil and gas industry continues its rapid expansion throughout North America, a growing body of research has linked fossil fuel development to physical and mental health conditions during and after pregnancy, including preterm birth, birth defects, and psychological stress.
[Source: medicalxpress.com]
[Image source: Adobe Stock]
Comment
The study described in this news story found a link between living near oil and gas development sites and poor mental health outcomes in women trying to conceive. Published in the American Journal of Public Health, the research indicates that people residing within six miles (9.6 km) of active fossil fuel extraction were more likely to experience moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms compared to those living further away. High perceived stress levels were particularly noted among individuals living as close as 1.25 miles (2 km) to these sites, with the intensity of oil and gas production exacerbating the stress.
Other studies have similarly expressed concern about the health risks resulting from so-called hydraulic fracturing – commonly known as fracking – a technique for obtaining oil and gas from shale rock. Sometimes referred to as ‘unconventional oil and gas development’, the process involves drilling into the earth and directing a high-pressure mixture of water, sand, and chemicals at rock. While governments commonly claim the process poses little or no risk to public health, the truth is the exact opposite. Studies have demonstrated clear links between fracking and cancer, heart attack, adverse birth outcomes, and numerous other negative health effects.
To learn more about the dangers of fracking, see this article on our website.
Dr. Rath Health Foundation
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