Photo: Latin Press.
OTTAWA, July 13 (RHC) — An air surveillance experiment has found high levels of a cancer-causing chemical across the city of Hamilton, Ontario, Canadian media reported Thursday.
The study shows that concentrations of the pollutant benzo(a)pyrene exceed Ontario’s air quality guidelines.
The research, led by the city of Hamilton and funded by Health Canada, has been going on for almost two years, but the results are only now known.
More than 60 aerial monitors were installed on street poles in each borough during that time, according to CTV News.
Benzo(a)pyrene is formed when certain chemicals do not burn completely and is found in automobile exhaust, smoke from burning wood, tobacco, oil and gas products, burnt or grilled food, the barbecue, and other sources.
This type of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon can also cause rashes, burning sensations, skin color changes, warts and bronchitis, and has been linked to a number of cancers, including lung and bladder cancer, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Research shows it has been found throughout the city, not just in areas near steel mills that often emit cancer-causing chemicals.
Hamilton steelmakers ArcelorMittal Dofasco and Stelco are among the country’s largest emitters of benzo(a)pyrene. (Spring: Latin Press).