In a meeting with the City of Dawson Creek council on February 9, researchers discussed the potential negative impacts and health consequences of oil and gas operations in northeast B.C. Dr. Ulrike Meyer, a long-time family physician in Dawson Creek, expressed concerns about the increasing incidence of rare cancers, attributing them to exposure to contaminants from nearby fracking activities.
Dr. Meyer emphasized the responsibility of health providers to safeguard public health and well-being by raising awareness and providing information. She mentioned that several physician colleagues had left the community due to health concerns related to living near fracking sites.
A significant number of lung biopsies conducted in Dawson Creek during the summer of 2023 revealed a high rate of cancer cases, with 23 out of 25 biopsies showing positive results. Additionally, between 2016 and 2018, ten individuals were diagnosed with idiopathic interstitial fibrosis, a lung condition with unknown origins, raising further health concerns in the community.
Dr. Meyer highlighted the extensive presence of fracking wells in the Peace region since the early 2000s, estimating around 30,000 wells in the area. Joining her were Dr. Élyse Caron-Beaudoin from the University of Toronto and Dr. Margaret McGregor from the University of British Columbia, who further elaborated on the health risks associated with exposure to fracking chemicals.
Caron-Beaudoin emphasized the potential contamination of water and air by fracking chemicals, leading to cellular damage that can trigger various health issues, including cancer, respiratory problems, and adverse birth outcomes. McGregor referenced numerous studies linking proximity to fracked gas operations with higher risks of fetal growth impairment, premature birth, birth defects, childhood cancer, and heart disease.
Councilor Jerimy Earl acknowledged the need for a thoughtful dialogue on the matter, recognizing the economic significance of the oil and gas industry to many Dawson Creek residents. He stressed the city’s commitment to public health and safety, mentioning the installation of additional air quality monitors and the availability of water treatment records for researchers.
The research team plans to continue investigating the health impacts of fracking activities in the Peace region, aiming to raise awareness and propose mitigation strategies based on scientific findings. McGregor emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the health risks associated with the gas industry to ensure the well-being of the community.
