Oil spill stirs study, debate over health impacts
This week in a meeting organized by the Institute of Medicine, “public health officials and scientists will be gathering in New Orleans to talk about whether any health problems could be caused by the Gulf oil spill.” (Atlanta AP, 6/21). The group will also discuss the most reliable way to monitor any potential medical issues.
Health officials assert that there are no real short term health risks, but are uncertain about the long term impacts particularly on the workers cleaning up the oil spill. However, the government has allocated $10 million for research.
As a products liability and medical malpractice lawyer, I am stunned by the BP oil spill and the magnitude of health and environmental problems it may cause. Hopefully the upcoming meeting with provide some insight into the battle that lies ahead.
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