"Study Finds Unusual Contamination in Animals Near Oilsands"

"EDMONTON - Scientists at the University of Manitoba say they have linked pollution in the oilsands to elevated cancer rates in Fort Chipewyan for the first time.

The impact on health in communities downwind of development is 'clear and worrisome,' researcher Stephane McLachlan told a news conference Monday in Edmonton. 'Something unique is happening in Fort Chipewyan, especially around cancer.'

Conducted in collaboration with the Athabasca Chipewyan and Mikisew Cree First Nations, the study found fish and animals consumed as part of a traditional diet contained unusually high concentrations of contaminants emitted during the extraction and upgrading of bitumen.

Twenty-three cases of cancer were reported among 94 people interviewed as part of the three-year, $1-million study, which was partially paid for by Health Canada and peer-reviewed by its scientists."

Marty Klinkenberg reports for the Edmonton Journal July 8, 2014.