Dioxin Contamination Issues in Midland

• An independent study of 350 individuals in Midland, Saginaw and Bay counties and an additional 350 people in Jackson and Calhoun counties in Michigan took place from 2004 to 2006. The University of Michigan-led exposure study was conducted to determine if there is a correlation between elevated levels of dioxin in the soil and elevated dioxin levels in people’s blood. The study results were announced on August 15, 2006, and can be accessed by clicking on the U of M link above.

• A second study has been proposed by Dow where soil from Midland and the Tittabawassee River area would be fed to laboratory animals to determine actual levels of dioxin absorption. Results from this bioavailability study would provide a more accurate estimate of the potential for exposure and could be used to improve the accuracy of site-specific action levels.

• A study by the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) that involved sampling the blood of 20 adult residents living in the Tittabawassee River floodplain was completed in the fall of 2004, and the results were announced in July 2005. The test to determine dioxin levels also included sampling indoor dust and soil of those floodplain residents. The results of this study can be found on the MDCH website under the heading "Exposure Investigation Report: Dioxin Exposure in Adults Living in the Tittabawassee River Floodplain."

Dow has also proposed other relevant studies to MDEQ that could be considered in setting site-specific criteria. Such studies would provide valuable information about how to reduce exposure levels and develop effective, efficient remediation programs.

More information on these studies, as well as information on Dow worker health studies, can be found in a series of Dow Community Newsletters on dioxin, located on Dow’s website.