"High Cancer Risk Plagues Louisiana Town Near Chemical Plants"

"RESERVE, Louisiana — In a Louisiana town of 10,000 people, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said there is some of the most toxic air in America. More than 100 petrochemical plants and refineries dot the corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, often referred to as 'cancer alley.'

The town of Reserve is right in the middle of it, and the cancer risk there is almost 50 times the national average, according to the EPA.

Robert Taylor has lived there most of his 78 years. Even his family cemetery is surrounded by a refinery. He said his mom, sister, uncle and nephew all died of cancer.

'As I stand here, it's overwhelming to me. All of my folks are here. I will eventually wind up here,' he said."

Janet Shamlian reports for CBS News July 24, 2019.