At least 58 Alabama patients treated for oil-related ailments, say health officials

[Forkboy]

MOBILE, Ala. -- Alabama Department of Public Health officials reported today that at least 58 people have gone to local emergency rooms, clinics and urgent care centers since May 14 complaining of ailments thought to be related to the oil spill.

That compares with 28,835 patients treated for non-trauma care overall during that period. Health officials are conducting surveillance across the state to monitor effects related to the spill at more than 20 sites in Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Thirty-four of the patients complaining of oil-caused symptoms were exposed via inhalation, 17 by contact, three through ingestion and four patients reported multiple exposures, according to a written statement from the Alabama Department of Public Health.

http://www.desdemonadespair.net/2010/07/at-least-58-alabama-patients-treated.html

[polly7]

1. I believe many of these people are in for a lifetime of illness.

My father was just dx'd with Myelodysplastic syndrome, he worked in the oilfield much of his life. One of the causes of MDS is benzene, "Because it is a known carcinogen, its use as an additive in gasoline is now limited, but it is an important industrial solvent and precursor in the production of drugs, plastics, synthetic rubber, and dyes. Benzene is a natural constituent of crude oil, and may be synthesized from other compounds present in petroleum." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benzene I don't know for sure that these people will be affected later on with this specifically, but it is a possibility, especially for those heavily involved in the cleanup. It's a horrible thing to have.

[Dystopian]

2. KandR.

And this is only the beginning....tragic.


peace~

[Bobbieo]

3. They are following the uranium miners!!!