IARC and HYPREP begin study on hydrocarbon pollution in Nigeria

Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and partner institutions have launched a study as part of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) in Ogoniland, Nigeria. The goals of the project are to investigate the health impacts of hydrocarbon pollution on the people of Ogoniland, build capacity for local health professionals, and provide clear recommendations for public health responses based on the results.

The study team will collect blood samples and information about the living conditions of people, including their exposure to pollutants, and other health risks from approximately 4000 people, including men, women, and children, to measure the levels of hydrocarbon exposure and assess whether any impacts on health have occurred. Samples will also be taken from areas where groundwater and crops are contaminated with hydrocarbons.

Children may be affected differently from adults because of their smaller body size and higher exposure levels.

The HYPREP project arises from key recommendations of a 2011 United Nations Environment Programme report on Ogoniland, which highlighted the need for a long-term, focused medical study to track health impacts of hydrocarbon pollution across the Ogoni population.