FAQs about EtO and Potential Health Impacts

  1. Does this cause respiratory problems and shortness of breath, along with fatigue?
  2. Is it possible that there were residents who had moved away from the area who might have cancer, but were not included in the study?
  3. Are people with lead exposure more vulnerable? Many homes have lead water lines. Over 90% of children tested for lead in this area.
  4. Is there a reason that throat cancer, aneurysms and other cancers are not included in this study?
  5. The former Trump Administration rolled back many EPA regulations. Can we ever be safe again?
  6. When did these gas emission results cause the EPA to become involved at this late date? The owners should have done their extensive study prior to establishing this hazardous source in our community.
  7. Will the Health Department do any testing on individuals for potential cancer of any kind?
  8. Has Sterilization Services said they would lower their Ethylene Oxide emissions?
  9. Why hasn’t our Health Department used their authority to force Sterilization Services to reduce Ethylene Oide emissions? Our Health Department has the authority by law to do this.
  10. What actions are being taken against the Sterilization company? These types of companies should be in remote areas.
  11. Why are these meetings held so far away from the communities affected? This church is 3.3 miles away from the facility. What about folks without transportation?
  12. Is there a lawsuit in the making for this matter because I hurt every day?
  13. When should the resident of 38109 expect any of these pending cancer-causing studies to be completed? What other actions in our regard should be taken?
  14. What should you do if you have been diagnosed with cancer?
  15. What should you do if you have cancer and do not have insurance for treatment?
  16. What can the Health Department do to provide access to care to those in the affected area?
  17. How long does it take for EPA’s proposed rule to become final and how long will facility have to comply? Will Sterilization Services consider making voluntary changes after the rule is published?
  18. Why does the Health Department not shut the facility down as a
  19. What are the individual services at the Shelby County Health Department?
  20. What are ways that the Shelby County Health Department can be more trustworthy to the community?
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