Studies
Hospitalization Patterns Associated with Appalachian Coal Mining
Tuesday, November 13th, 2007
In this study, the authors found that the volume of coal mining has a significant impact on hospitalization risk, particularly for hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The findings of this study showed the odds for hospitalization for COPD increased 1% for each 1462 tons of coal produced and the odds of hospitalization for hypertension increased 1% for every 1873 tons. Both of these conditions are related to exposure to particulates and other pollution associated with coal mining. The authors also point out other effects of the production and consumption of coal including air pollution, occupational hazards, and global climate change.
Hendryx, M., M. Ahern, and T. Nurkiewicz. (2011) “Hospitalization Patterns Associated with Appalachian Coal Mining.” Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 70: 2064-70.
