Community Perceptions of Health Risks Associated With a Petrochemical Plant in Beaver County, Pennsylvania

We surveyed residents in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, to explore their perceptions on health in the months leading up to the November 2022 opening of a petrochemical plant (specifically, an ethylene cracker plant) in the county. An online survey collecting demographics, self-reported health habits, perceived community and personal health status, and attitudes toward environmental health was distributed from July 2022 through August 2023. Descriptive statistics were generated and chi-square tests of independence were calculated. A total of 436 adult residents of Beaver County completed the survey. Respondents indicated concerns about their current exposure to air pollution (76%) and unsafe drinking water (65%). Approximately 36% and 25% of survey respondents indicated that they felt their health had been harmed by air pollution or unsafe drinking water, respectively. Perceived health and specific health habits were associated with agreeing or disagreeing with the statements “My health has been harmed by unsafe drinking water” and “My health has been harmed by air pollution.” These data illustrate that there is high concern about current and future exposure to pollution in Beaver County. These findings can assist community leaders in addressing and advocating for participant concerns about exposure to air and water pollution. A follow-up survey will be conducted to determine if there have been changes in perceptions since plant operations began.