Evaluating the Health Impacts of the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

There are many different chemicals in crude oil and dispersants, with some more toxic than others. We know the environmental effects of these chemicals are devastating, but how they affect people is less clear. Previous oil spills, such as the Exxon Valdez spill in 1986 in Alaska, indicate there are some short-term health impacts. Breathing in oil mist can cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems. Getting oil on the skin can lead to skin issues. Children and individuals with health problems, such as respiratory conditions like asthma, are particularly susceptible to oil effects. Many of these physical health impacts appear temporary, but little is known about the long-term impacts.