We want to understand if hydraulic fracturing impacts child development.

Approximately 18% of gas production internationally now comes from hydraulic fracturing. In Alberta, there are over 180,000 wells located around the province. ‘Fracking’ is a relatively new cost-efficient technology that has opened up new possibilities for extracting oil and gas in multiple regions around the world.

Today, the World Health Organization classifies the impact of fracking on human health as ‘mostly unknown’. Currently, there are very few research studies that exist to understand this relationship and these were completed in the United States. Our study is hoping to fill this gap in the Canadian context. Findings from our study will provide evidence that will inform decisions and practices related fracking.

To see a recent interview about findings related to the project and ongoing research efforts with project leads Dr. Amy Metcalfe and Dr. Carly McMorris please follow this link: https://omny.fm/shows/ched-afternoon-news/study-finds-link-between-fracking-operations-and-i.

 

Who can participate?

We are looking for school-aged children living in communities close to and remote from fracking locations.

You are eligible if:

  • You have a child in grades 1 through 3 without any existing neurodevelopmental diagnoses

  • Can read and write English

  • Live in Lethbridge, Grand Prairie, Red Deer, or Medicine Hat

  • Have access to a device with an internet connection

 

What is involved with this study?

Participants will be compensated $50 and receive a summary of their child’s performance on assessment measures.

 

7 day at-home measurement of air pollution

  • Children will wear a device that measures the amount of air pollution around them for one week.

2-hour virtual assessment of child development

  • Includes caregivers completing questionnaires and children completing standardized psychological assessment tools with an iPad.

  • Psychological measures will assess thinking skills, academic abilities and social-emotional functioning.

  • Participants will receive a brief summary of how their child performed on the psychological measures.