Toronto Star reporter Matthew Van Dongen writes about a citywide pollution-tracking study in Hamilton, Ontario, which found unhealthy levels of common steelmaking pollutant benzo(a)pyrene at monitoring sites from Dundas to Stoney Creek. While a reduction in coal use by the city's largest steelmaker is expected to improve air quality, it won't take effect until 2028. Exposure to this chemical compound has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly lung cancer, as well as respiratory problems and other negative health outcomes. The study's results highlight the need for government regulation and reduction of dangerous pollutants to protect public health. For additional context, read Elizabeth Gribkoff's article about how we're miscalculating the cancer risks from a massive class of chemicals.

Source: ABC News July 10, 2023 21:53 UTC