Childhood exposure to Haifa pollution linked to increased cancer risk

The new study reinforces Israel’s decision to shut down the petrochemical compound.

A study funded by the ministries of environment and health has found a link between pollution exposure among children living in the Haifa Bay area and a higher risk for various types of cancer.

According to the report, cancer risk was found to correlate to the pollution levels to which the person were exposed and can range 6%-17% higher than those who were not exposed.

The study found higher incidences of breast cancer in women, cancers in the central nervous system, head and neck, and thyroid cancer, as well as leukemia and melanoma.

Lung cancer, which is often found as a result of exposure to contaminated environments, was not found, which researchers attribute to the fact that it usually develops at a later age.

The study focused on Haifa Bay, long seen as one of Israel’s most polluted areas, home to large-scale oil refineries and industry and analysed data from 1967-2012. 

In March the Israeli government voted unanimously to end petrochemical operations in Haifa Bay, including an oil refinery, chemical complex and tank farms, following a committee recommendation.

Faced with significant air pollution and above-average incidences of cancer and respiratory disease, Haifa residents, backed by environmental activists, have been campaigning for years to shut the complex down.

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Study: Childhood exposure to Haifa pollution linked to increased cancer risk (Times of Israel)

Cabinet unanimously votes to shut down Haifa Bay’s oil refineries (Times of Israel)