A first-of-its-kind study published in Environmental Health Perspectives examines the impacts of chemicals used in fracking on pregnancy outcomes in nearby communities across the U.S.
In short:
- Communities with more fracking wells had significantly higher rates of both preterm birth and low birth weight in newborns.
- Some fracking chemicals are known endocrine disruptors with effects on human development and reproduction.
- These chemicals have been found in water supplies near fracking sites, highlighting the risk of exposure for surrounding communities.
Key quote:
“The growing body of epidemiologic evidence on oil and gas development demonstrates consistent health harms to local communities.”
- Joan Casey & Mary Willis, via EHP’s accompanying editorial
Why this matters:
Although nearly 5% of the US population lives within a mile of active oil and gas wells, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of exposure pathways and their impacts on human health. The risks of fracking include not only the chemicals used in the process - many of which are unknown due to lax disclosure laws - but also exposure to air pollution, flaring, and constant noise and light pollution. The authors of this study emphasize the need for better regulations on the fracking industry overall.
Related EHN coverage:
- In the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania, new poll finds 90% of respondents support stricter fracking regulations
- Residents say Pennsylvania has failed communities after state studies linked fracking to child cancer
- A Pennsylvania fracking company with more than 2,000 environmental violations was selected for federal environmental justice funding
More resources: For more on the health impacts of fracking, see EHN’s Fractured series, a two-year investigation into the severe mental, physical, and social toll of fracking on nearby communities in Pennsylvania.
Poole, Ella et al. for Environmental Health Perspectives vol. 132, 10. Oct. 16, 2024, and Joan Casey & Mary Willis’ accompanying editorial.
- Report: Texas fracking is exacerbating the PFAS crisis ›
- Fractured: The body burden of living near fracking ›
