The Impact of Coal-Powered Electrical Plants and Coal Ash Impoundments on the Health of Residential Communities

North Carolina Medical Journal
Julia Kravchenko, H Kim Lyerly

Abstract

BACKGROUND In North Carolina, coal-burning power plants remain the major source of electrical production. Coal burning generates coal ash that is stored in landfills and slurry ponds that are often located near residential communities, signifying high potential for environmental contamination and increasing health risks. We reviewed the literature on potential health effects of coal-burning plants to summarize current knowledge on health risks.METHODS We searched English-language publications issued between January 1, 1987, and December 31, 2017, on PubMed and Google Scholar.RESULTS The algorithm of identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion/exclusion we used provided 113 peer-reviewed publications selected for the review. Over the past 30 years, scientists reported that the people living in close proximity to coal-fired plants had higher rates of all-cause and premature mortality, increased risk of respiratory disease and lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, poorer child health, and higher infant mortality. The elevated health risk was associated with exposure to air pollutants from the power plant emissions and to a spectrum of heavy metals and radioactive isotopes in coal ash.CONCLUSION In North Carolina, further ...Continue Reading

Citations

Jan 9, 2020·Annual Review of Public Health·Michael HendryxJuhua Luo
Oct 17, 2019·International Journal of Environmental Health Research·Eric Amster
Jan 27, 2021·Environmental Geochemistry and Health·Marcela Dupont-SoaresFlavio Manoel Rodrigues da Silva Júnior
Mar 5, 2021·Environmental Science and Pollution Research International·Gabriel-Petrică BălăCristian Oancea
Nov 14, 2020·Environmental Science and Pollution Research International·Marina Dos SantosFlavio Manoel Rodrigues da Silva Junior
Jul 15, 2021·Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·Charlie H ZhangKristina M Zierold
Apr 20, 2021·Energy & Fuels : an American Chemical Society Journal·Constance SeniorWayne Seames

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