Health Experts Demand Fracking Pause Until Impacts Are Fully Understood

January 2012 – New York, NY — A coalition of medical professionals, environmental health experts, and public health organizations is urging New York State to halt the expansion of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) until comprehensive research is completed on its health impacts. While drilling companies continue to push for permits, health leaders are calling for precaution—and evidence. They argue that without solid scientific data, the state risks putting public health at serious risk.

At the same time, health experts warn that the potential dangers extend beyond isolated well sites. Toxic chemicals used in fracking can migrate into groundwater, evaporate into the air, and linger in soil. Once exposed, nearby residents may face higher risks of asthma, cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological disorders. Despite these concerns, state officials have yet to complete a formal health impact study. As a result, public health advocates demand a full, independent review before any new drilling begins.

Medical Community Raises the Alarm

Doctors and scientists from Concerned Health Professionals of New York are speaking out. They warn that fracking threatens air and water quality. Nearby communities may face exposure to toxic chemicals. At the same time, they argue the state has failed to study health impacts fully. Fracking uses high-pressure mixtures of water, sand, and chemicals to extract gas. However, the risks remain poorly understood.

Even so, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) moved ahead with regulations. Experts say this step skips critical science. Without a full health impact assessment, the process lacks credibility. As a result, communities may face lasting harm—from polluted water, toxic air, and constant noise.

Call for an Independent Health Impact Assessment

Health advocates are calling on Governor Andrew Cuomo and state regulators to conduct an independent, peer-reviewed Health Impact Assessment (HIA) before issuing any new fracking permits. This type of study would evaluate the potential short- and long-term effects of fracking on nearby populations—including children, a woman who is pregnant and for older people.

Dr. David O. Carpenter, director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University at Albany, emphasized the urgency. “We need to fully understand what people are breathing, drinking, and being exposed to before we allow this to move forward,” he said.

Evidence of Harm Mounts Nationwide

Fracking supporters highlight job growth and energy independence. However, data from other states tells a darker story. Communities in Texas, Colorado, and Pennsylvania report asthma spikes, brain fog, and toxic tap water. At the same time, research from the Endocrine Disruption Exchange links fracking fluids to hormone disruptors and cancer-causing chemicals. As a result, public health experts demand stronger monitoring and baseline data. Without it, New York risks repeating the same mistakes.

Putting Public Health First

Despite intense lobbying from the gas industry, health experts insist that New York must prioritize science and safety over speed. They point out that environmental degradation often carries hidden health costs that burden communities and public healthcare systems for generations.

“Once the damage is done,” Carpenter warned, “it’s hard—and often impossible—to undo.”

The message is clear: pause the permits, do the research, and protect the people first.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – January 9, 2012 – ABOUT PSE

Source: The nonprofit Physicians Scientists & Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE)