Health Project: Air Pollution Greater Threat from Gas Drilling

By Patch Regional Editor Susan Koomar

Skin rashes, headaches, dizziness and eye irritation are some of the effects suffered by Washington County residents as an alleged result of gas drilling-related air pollution, according to information gathered by the Southwest Pennsylvania Environmental Health Project.

Air pollution could pose a greater threat than water contamination according to an investigation into the impact of natural gas drilling, State Impact reports.

An environmental expert quoted by the Associated Press said more work is needed to determine what caused the health problems reported by Washington County residents.

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Environmental Health Project (SWPA-EHP) urges residents to track their symptoms and environmental changes in their community by keeping a "health diary."

The SWPA-EHP is a non-profit environmental health organization that assists Washington County residents who believe their health has been affected by natural gas drilling.

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