Fracking Health Fears Grip Dawson Creek

Physicians in Dawson Creek, B.C., have met with city council to voice grave concerns regarding the health consequences of extensive oil and gas activity in northeast B.C. For over three decades, local family physician Dr. Ulrike Meyer has observed a notable increase in rare cancer diagnoses and a concerning number of idiopathic interstitial fibrosis cases, a lung condition with no known cause.

In a stark illustration, 25 lung biopsies performed in Dawson Creek during the summer of 2023 resulted in 23 positive cancer diagnoses. Similarly, ten individuals were diagnosed with idiopathic interstitial fibrosis between 2016 and 2018 in a population of just over 12,000. These elevated incidences have prompted calls for greater awareness and action.

Accompanying Dr. Meyer were Dr. Élyse Caron-Beaudoin, a University of Toronto researcher, and Dr. Margaret McGregor, a UBC family physician. Dr. Caron-Beaudoin highlighted that fracking chemicals can contaminate water and air, leading to cellular damage with potential links to cancer, respiratory issues, and adverse birth outcomes. Research spanning from 2000 to 2022 identified significant risks associated with living near fracked gas sites, including impaired fetal growth, premature birth, congenital malformations, and childhood cancer.

City Councillor Jerimy Earl acknowledged the health concerns but also emphasized the economic reliance of many residents on the oil and gas sector. He assured that public health and safety remain priorities and noted the installation of additional air quality monitors throughout the region, with data intended for public access. Researchers plan to continue investigating the health outcomes in relation to fracking activity.