Why do these researchers want your baby teeth?
Summary
Researchers at Ohio State University are studying how exposure to oilfield brine, a radioactive waste spread on some roads in Ohio, affects the health of local residents. They are collecting samples like baby teeth and toenail clippings from people who live in counties where the brine is used to learn more about long-term health risks.Key Facts
- Oilfield brine is a radioactive byproduct from oil and gas drilling that has been spread on roads in parts of Ohio for over 40 years.
- The brine is used to melt ice and control dust in counties like Licking, Coshocton, and Ashtabula.
- Ohio State University researchers, led by Dr. Arbor Quist, have started a study collecting baby teeth, toenail clippings, and soil samples to check for health effects.
- Radium, a radioactive element in the brine, can cause cancer because it builds up in bones like calcium.
- Radium breaks down into radon gas, which is linked to lung cancer; Licking County has very high radon levels.
- The brine can wash into gardens and streams, potentially contaminating food and water.
- It has been legal to spread oilfield brine in Ohio since 1985, and some well owners give the brine away for free to towns for road use.
- Local activists are working to stop the use of oilfield brine on roads due to health concerns.
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