Appalachian people living near mining more likely to die of cancer, according to scientists.

A new study finds that people living nearest to streams polluted by coal mining are more likely to die of various types of cancer, even after adjusting for other factors that could affect health outcomes such as smoking. The study, released last week, was focused on West Virginia, but scientists believe its findings likely apply to anywhere in the Central Appalachian region that coal mining takes place.

"Regulation of coal mining is often portrayed as a choice between mayflies and miners, however, this study shows how streams are important for the health and welfare of miners and their communities." – Emily Bernhardt, Duke University biologist

The study took three measures into consideration - levels of stream pollution from coal mining, cancer deaths amongst residents, and proximity of those who died to areas of high mining intensity. The scientists found that, for those living near lots of coal mining and thus near streams heavily polluted by mining activities, rates of death from the following types of cancer increase:

• Respiratory
• Digestive
• Urinary
• Breast

Unusual clusters of these types of cancer were found in areas of the highest mining intensity.

Dr. Michael Hendryx, who testified about the public health impacts of coal mining before the Kentucky General Assembly this year, co-authored the study. Click here to read more about Dr. Hendryx's testimony and to learn more about the public health impacts of coal.