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Oil and gas wells release harmful chemicals that may increase the risk of leukemia, the most common childhood cancer. These include substances like benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Recent studies from states like Colorado and Pennsylvania show a troubling link between living near oil and gas wells and higher leukemia rates in children. Now, new research takes this further by examining how the number of wells and the amount of oil and gas produced can affect these risks.

This study, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, analyzed records of over 3,000 children born in Colorado from 1992 to 2019. It found that kids diagnosed with leukemia between ages two and nine were more than twice as likely to live within about three miles of dense oil and gas activities compared to healthy kids. They were also 1.4 to 2.64 times more likely to live within eight miles of these developments.

Lead researcher Lisa McKenzie, an associate professor at the Colorado School of Public Health, noted, “The density of oil and gas development really matters. A lone well might not significantly raise risk, but many wells nearby can.”

The study included 451 children with leukemia and 2,706 without. Researchers tracked the wells’ proximity and density from the time the children were conceived until their diagnosis. They factored in many elements, like environmental pollution and maternal age, to ensure accuracy.

McKenzie explained, “Kids near the densest oil and gas areas had the highest risk. Even being close to any well increased the likelihood of leukemia.”

Cassandra Clark, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Minnesota, praised the study for its larger sample size and rigorous controls. “We now have enough studies suggesting a consistent link between oil and gas development and increased leukemia risk in children,” she stated. This insight could help shape better health policies regarding oil and gas operations.

In response to such findings, Colorado increased setback distances for new wells. The distance is now 2,000 feet from homes and schools, a significant improvement for health safety. In contrast, Pennsylvania’s setback is just 500 feet, which some argue is insufficient and can be waived.

McKenzie emphasized that simply increasing setback distances may not be enough. “We need to consider the cumulative effects of all nearby wells to truly protect vulnerable populations, like children.”

Monitoring this issue is vital, as studies continue to uncover the health risks linked to living near oil and gas developments. As communities grapple with these challenges, understanding the risks can lead to better protections for future generations.

For more on this topic, you can read further from Environmental Health News to get updates on related health research and policies.

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biodiversity, energy, environmental health, public health