Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
News Releases
CNSC releases synthesis report on Port Hope health studies
09-10
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2009
OTTAWA- The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) released today a report entitled “Understanding Health Studies and Risk Assessments Conducted in the Port Hope Community from the 1950s to the Present” (PDF) that indicates that the health of Port Hope residents is not at risk and is consistent with the health of the general population of Ontario and Canada.
The historical and current presence of the nuclear industry in Port Hope has resulted in over forty studies reporting on the health of its citizens. The CNSC, Health Canada, Natural Resources Canada, the Low Level Radioactive Waste Management Office and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment have been involved in various studies of health effects, environmental exposures and other historic activities in Port Hope. CNSC staff reviewed and considered all relevant, known and recognized studies before concluding that the health of Port Hope residents is not at risk. None of the studies reviewed show unusual patterns of cancer or any other diseases related to the nuclear industry, either in workers or members of the community. In addition, the health of Port Hope residents is consistent with the rest of the population of Ontario and Canada.
“I hope that this report will put the mind of Port Hope residents at ease and reassure them that the CNSC is respecting its mandate by protecting their health and safety and by ensuring ongoing monitoring of the nuclear industry in Port Hope” said CNSC President Michael Binder.
CNSC staff will present the findings of its report at a Public Commission Meeting on April 29 and to the Port Hope Town Council in June of this year. The CNSC will also be hosting a 2-day Open House for Port Hope residents who wish to learn more about the report.For additional information on the report, please consult Health studies done in Port Hope: The Facts.
The CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment; and to respect Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
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For additional information, please contact:
Aurèle Gervais
CNSC Media Relations
613-996-6860
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