Field Burning and Your Health

Field Burning Facts

Field burning smoke contains small particles (fine particulate matter) that penetrate deep into our lungs and enter our blood stream.
The American Medical Association has found that even short-term exposure to these particles increases the risk for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. In fact, an increase of 10 micrograms of particulate matter per cubic meter results in an 11 percent increase in the number of strokes.
Exactly such an increase occurred on July 10^th, 2007 in Eugene when a small field burn near Harrisbug went awry. Bigger increases due to field burns have been recorded elsewhere.
During field burning days, as much as 2/3 of fine particulate pollution in the Willamette Valley is attributable to field burning.
Particulate pollution has been linked to infant death, premature birth, and low birth weight.
Many fields are sprayed with pesticides before they are burned. As a result, in addition to both coarse and fine particulates, the smoke can contain a complex mixture of toxins.

Field Burning's Toxic Contribution

Acrolein – Can damage the lungs and lead to death. Causes burning of eyes, nose, and throat, and causes difficulty in breathing.

Benzene – A known carcinogen. Causes harmful effects on bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells leading to anemia. Can cause excessive bleeding and affect the immune system. Has been linked to decreased fertility in women and lukemia.

Naphthalene – Believed to be a carcinogen. Can damage or destroy red blood cells causing anemia which will result in fatigue, lack of appetite, restlessness, and pale skin.

Phenol - Causes respiratory irritation, headaches, and burning eyes. People who had skin exposure to high amounts of phenol had skin burns, liver damage, dark urine, irregular heart beat, and some died. Ingestion of high concentrations of phenol has resulted in internal burns and death.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) – The DHHS has determined that some PAHs may reasonably be expected to be carcinogens. Long term exposure has been linked to lung, stomach, and skin cancer. Studies on animals have resulted in decreased fertility rates and higher rates of birth defects.