Identifying the known and unknown health hazard information for chemical disasters: a phased scoping review of the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment.

INTRODUCTION

In February 2023, people residing in the village of East Palestine (EP, Ohio, USA) and surrounding areas were exposed to toxic chemicals from a Norfolk Southern Railway train derailment and subsequent vent and burn.

OBJECTIVE

To identify known health hazards and evidence gaps from these chemicals to inform disaster-response research.

METHODS

We conducted a rapid phased literature scoping review. In Phase 1, we summarized major conclusions from eight authoritative sources across ~15 health hazard categories for 22 chemicals potentially related to the train derailment and response. In Phase 2, we conducted targeted literature searches in PubMed for higher-priority chemicals and outcomes with research gaps, considering the recency of authoritative reviews. Finally, we summarized findings from the retrieved studies and those from authoritative reviews to further characterize evidence gaps and the next steps.

RESULTS

Eight higher-priority chemicals were skin and eye irritants, seven of which were also respiratory irritants, consistent with symptoms reported by East Palestine residents and workers. Five chemicals were human or animal carcinogens; two may cause adverse immunological or neurological effects, and one may cause damage to reproductive organs or the developing fetus. Vinyl chloride had the most comprehensive data. After Phase 2 literature searches, we suggested the need for primary studies for 12 chemical outcome pairs and a systematic review for two pairs.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our rapid literature scoping approach can provide knowledge for researchers conducting community studies and public health officials who communicate with the affected community on the known and unknown health hazards of chemicals related to the East Palestine train derailment. It also informs global disaster-response-related research, as these chemicals are commercially important and have been detected in other chemical release incidents. Moreover, our rapid literature scoping phased approach can be leveraged for environmental emergencies when the need for health hazard information is urgent.

IMPACT

Our rapid literature scoping approach can provide knowledge for researchers conducting community studies and public health officials who communicate with the affected community on the known and unknown health hazards of chemicals related to the East Palestine train derailment. It also informs global disaster-response-related research, as these chemicals are commercially important and have been detected in other chemical release incidents. Moreover, the phased approach used for our rapid literature scoping review can be leveraged for environmental emergencies when the need for health hazard information is urgent.