[CPEO-MEF] Oregon perchlorate health investigation

[Lenny Siegel <lsiegel@cpeo.org>]

North Morrow Perchlorate Area

SHINE was asked by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR) to address exposure to drinking water as well as other potential
sources contaminated with perchlorate. The area under investigation is
known as the North Morrow Perchlorate Area. In 2003, perchlorate was
detected at low levels by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
and the federal Environmental Protection Agency in drinking and
irrigation groundwater wells. Additional groundwater sampling conducted
in 2003 and 2004 also found low levels.
 
Perchlorate exposure is a particular concern for infants, small
children, and women of childbearing age, especially those who are
pregnant or nursing, because it can adversely affect iodide and thyroid
hormone levels essential for proper physical and mental development.
People with severe iodine deficiency or hypothyroidism are also a
concern. 

SHINE conducted an initial investigation and completed a Public Health
Consultation (PHC), which concludes that the North Morrow Perchlorate
area poses an indeterminate public health hazard. Although perchlorate
concentrations in drinking water in the area have not been detected at
levels of concern, there is not enough information about exposure
concentrations from sources other than drinking water, such as produce
and milk available to area residents. Once data from other sources are
available, the exposure of sensitive populations that currently have
contaminated drinking water can be assessed.

For the original, background, and additional documents, go to
http://www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051203/NEWS01/512030328/1006

-- 


Lenny Siegel
Director, Center for Public Environmental Oversight
c/o PSC, 278-A Hope St., Mountain View, CA 94041
Voice: 650/961-8918 or 650/969-1545
Fax: 650/961-8918
<lsiegel@cpeo.org>
http://www.cpeo.org
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