Mortality effects of a copper smelter strike and reduced ambient sulfate particulate matter pollution

2007

Mortality from Copper Smelter Emissions in 1967

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Grahame Thomas

Primary Institution: U.S. Department of Energy

Are reductions in particulate emissions linked to lower mortality rates?

The study suggests that mortality reductions during the copper smelter strike were likely linked to decreased particulate matter levels.

Mortality rates were 40% greater than expected when the steel mill was operating.
Women near copper smelters had a relative risk of 5.61 for acute respiratory disease mortality.
Blood lead levels have been associated with mortality even at low levels.

When the copper smelter stopped working, fewer people died because the air was cleaner.

The study does not provide evidence that secondary sulfate reductions were related to mortality reductions.

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