Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Roca Honda Mine

Chapter 3. Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences
Figure 78. Links between the project and environmental health outcomes
Health Changes Arising from Exposure to Contaminants and Pollutants
Below are described potential routes of exposure to air and water-borne contaminants and
potential effects on human health. Project-related changes to air and water quality are discussed
elsewhere in this EIS in the sections of air, water, and environmental justice; impacts to human
health from potential exposure to project-related radioactive substances are addressed air quality.
Characterizing the extent of human exposure to contaminant loads and the modeling of
subsequent changes in human health outcomes is beyond the scope of this assessment.
Community Exposure to Radioactive Materials
The mining dust from the project will contain three potentially hazardous naturally-occurring
substances: radon, radium and uranium.
Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed as a decay product of radioactive elements in soil and
rock. It is common and is found in many homes and other buildings. Radon gas can attach to dust
particles or other substances and be inhaled. It can also be ingested through drinking water from
underground sources. Most radon that enters the body is breathed out; however, small amounts
can remain and enter organs or fat tissues to become a health hazard. Radon exposure is
associated with the development of lung cancer. Since tobacco products are naturally sticky,
radon is more easily retained in the body when someone is smoking (ATSDR, 2008).
Radium is another radioactive substance that results from the decay of uranium and thorium in
rock and soil. It can enter the body when it is inhaled or swallowed. Most radium leaves the body
immediately if it is ingested; however up to 20 percent can remain in the bloodstream and be
carried to all parts of the body. Health impacts from long-term exposure to radium include
anemia, cataracts, fractured teeth, cancer (especially bone) and death (ATSDR, 1990).
Uranium is mainly ingested through water and food, but can also be ingested through air,
although minimally. Most ingested uranium leaves the body though the urine, however, some can
DEIS for Roca Honda Mine, Cibola National Forest 409