Direct link found between Coldwater Creek and cancer rates, Harvard researchers say
After years of fighting for answers as to how Coldwater Creek impacted the lives of the people around her Just Moms STL co-founder Dawn Chapman admits it's bittersweet news.
'We need to be able to look each other in the St. Louis region and say there are no more exposures happening,' Chapman said. 'I don't think we can say that today.'
GET TO KNOW YOUR CITY
Find Local Events Near You
Connect with a community of local professionals.
Explore All Events
Researchers studied more than 300,000 baby teeth collected for the St. Louis Institute-Later Life Health study between 1959 and 1970.
'It gives us little fossil record as to what they were exposed to back in those early days,' said Marc Weisskopf, professor of environmental epidemiology and physiology at Harvard's School of Public Health.
Weisskopf and his research team were able to determine that while roughly 24% of people in the St. Louis region will develop cancer the rates near Coldwater Creek are much higher.
'People really close to the creek, within a kilometer, were about 40% more likely to have cancer at any sort,' Weisskopf said. 'If you focus on those that are considered more radiosensitive they were about 85% more likely to have cancer.'
Weisskopf said he's already applying for grant funding for a second, more intensive study of the contamination in Coldwater Creek.
'We can actually use those teeth and measure the remnants of that long-ago radiation that were in the teeth, and get much more precise about this and say not just, 'Did you happen to live close to the teeth?' but, 'What level of radiation is in your tooth, and what is your risk of cancer later on,' said Weisskopf.
Chapman said the study is a call to action for more extensive testing and cleanup to be done in the Coldwater Creek area.
"We need to get out there and clean Coldwater Creek up in two to five years,' Chapman said. 'No more of this slow-paced business. Now that we have RECA it's time to stop the exposures, so that we don't need it ongoing."
Just last week, Congress expanded the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to people in north St. Louis County.
If you live near Coldwater Creek, there is a town hall next Thursday, July 24, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the James Eagen Gymnasium in Florissant to discuss the help available.
Go here for KSDK's full report.
The St. Louis Business Journal contributed to this report.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CBS News
3 hours ago
- CBS News
Underwater grasses in Maryland's part of the Chesapeake Bay dropped slightly in 2024
Underwater grasses in Maryland's portion of the Chesapeake Bay declined slightly in 2024, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. Underwater grass abundance is a key indicator of water quality, the DNR said. The total area covered by submerged aquatic vegetation fell from 38,188 acres in 2023 to 36,794 acres in 2024. Maryland's 2025 restoration goal is 79,800 acres. An annual survey of submerged aquatic vegetation, (SAV), was conducted by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science between May and October 2024. Despite the overall loss, freshwater SAV populations in Maryland performed well. All or part of five rivers surpassed their restoration goals, the DNR said. "The resilience we're seeing in freshwater SAV beds this year is encouraging and reflects years of targeted restoration, outreach, and monitoring," said Brooke Landry, the DNR's SAV program chief. "But sharp declines in widgeon grass across the mid-Bay are concerning, especially given how quickly this species can respond to changes in water quality." Also known as bay grasses, underwater grasses help create critical habitat for fish, blue crabs, and other aquatic life in the Chesapeake Bay. They absorb excess nutrients, stabilize sediments, and slow shoreline erosion. The DNR noted that bay grasses also help buffer the effects of climate change by removing carbon and reducing acidity in the water. Several Chesapeake Bay tributaries—including the Back River and Upper Chester River—saw strong growth in underwater grasses, according to the report. However, in the saltier mid-Bay region, significant declines were reported, especially in widgeon grass, a key species in that area. The latest SAV survey results come as Maryland continues efforts to improve the bay's health. In December 2024, nearly $400,000 in federal grant funding was awarded to five Maryland-based projects focused on environmental, cultural, and historical conservation within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Medscape
8 hours ago
- Medscape
‘Downwinders' Compensation Program Reinstated, Expanded
When nuclear tests detonated in Nevada during the 1950s and 1960s, a Salt Lake City physician knew danger would blow into town on the wind. So, he set about to protect his family from radiation. He banned milk from the table for months at a time because strontium-90 could settle on cow pastures and contaminate dairy products. He told his eight children to take iodine pills to protect their thyroid glands from radioactive iodine. And he required them to wear rubber boots when they played on grass after it rained in the days following nuclear tests. Now, five of the physician's eight children have had cancer, including Brian Moench, MD, who grew up to be an anesthesiologist and is now in his 70s. Two of Moench's own children have had cancer too, both at unusually young ages. Thanks to a recent decision by Congress to reinstate and expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) program, now people who lived in northern Utah during the nuclear test era and later developed specific kinds of cancer linked to radiation exposure can apply for the first time for federal compensation — $100,000 each. Those exposed to radiation from tests and nuclear waste in several other regions of the country are also now eligible for compensation. 'Creating this fund was certainly the ethical and moral thing to do,' said Moench, who's fought to expand RECA but can't apply for compensation since the forms of cancer he developed — skin and prostate — aren't covered. Moench, who's president of Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment, said the organization's members will alert patients about the program's expansion. Other clinicians across the country, even those in areas far from mid-century nuclear testing, can help get the word out too. Here are questions and answers about the reinstatement and expansion of the RECA program: What is the RECA program? Congress passed the act in 1990 and later expanded it, allowing compensation to people from several affected areas who developed cancer following exposure to radiation in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. 'Downwinders' — those who lived downwind of nuclear testing in certain areas of Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, and Arizona — were eligible for $50,000 payments. Uranium workers in 11 states west of the Mississippi River could get $100,000, and onsite nuclear testing workers such as members of the military were eligible for $75,000. The eligible cancers for downwinders are blood cancers (leukemias with the exception of chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL], multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas) and a long list of solid organ cancers such as thyroid, breast, stomach, brain, lung, colon, and liver cancers. As of July 2025, 27,309 downwinders received $1.4 billion in compensation, along with 5768 onsite nuclear testing workers ($422 million in compensation), 7088 uranium miners ($708 million), 1982 uranium millers ($198 million), and 433 ore transporters ($43 million). In total, the program has awarded $2.7 billion. What's the status of the program? While there was bipartisan support to extend and expand RECA upon its expiration in June 2024, Congress failed to act. The program ended, and no further applications could be accepted. Politicians in affected states raised the alarm and pushed to renew RECA. Legislation was tucked into the mammoth 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' which passed Congress largely upon party lines and was signed by the president in July 2025. What has changed regarding eligibility and compensation? Lilly Adams, senior outreach coordinator with the Union of Concerned Scientists, which supports expanding the program, highlighted these changes in the reinstated RECA program in an interview: Expanded downwinder eligibility: Eligible downwinders now include those who lived in all of New Mexico, Utah, and Idaho and all of Mohave County in Arizona. (Previously, none of Idaho and only parts of New Mexico, Utah, and Mohave County were included.) There's also a change regarding coverage of downwinders who developed forms of leukemia other than CLL. Now, downwinders who were exposed to radiation during listed times and developed leukemia — except CLL — are eligible for compensation. Previously, exposure had to occur before 21 years of age. CLL continues to not be one of the eligible types of cancer. Expanded uranium worker eligibility: People who worked as a uranium miller or miner, ore transporter, or core driller — or were involved in remediation efforts at a uranium mine or mill — are eligible for compensation. Eligibility for core drillers and remediation workers is new. The eligible period has expanded to 1942-1990 from 1947-1971, and the list of eligible diseases has expanded for certain uranium workers. New nuclear production/waste eligibility: People who live in communities in specific zip codes in Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alaska around nuclear waste/production sites are now eligible for compensation. They must have lived in the areas for at least 2 years after January 1, 1949. The eligible diseases, which must have an onset at least 2 years after the date of initial exposure, are multiple myeloma; lymphoma; cancer of the thyroid, breast, esophagus, stomach, pharynx, small intestine, pancreas, bile ducts, gall bladder, salivary gland, bladder, brain, colon, ovary, bone, renal, liver (except if cirrhosis or hepatitis B is indicated), lung, or leukemia (only if exposure occurred after the age of 20 years). These people can receive either $50,000 or the total of all out-of-pocket medical expenses related to their qualifying illness, whichever is higher. Survivors may receive $25,000 if the affected person has died. Reduced residency requirements: Outside of New Mexico, downwinders now need to prove only 1 year of residence in affected areas from January 21, 1951, to November 6, 1962, or for the entire period from June 30, 1962, to July 31, 1962, which is down from the previous 2-year requirement. Previously, there was a gap of ineligibility between 1958 and 1962. For New Mexico only, eligible people must have lived for at least 1 year in the state between September 24, 1944, and November 6, 1962. Increased compensation: Downwinders will now receive $100,000 instead of the previous $50,000, while onsite nuclear test participants will see payments increase from $75,000 to $100,000. Uranium miners will continue to receive $100,000, with the program now extended to include core drillers. New deadline: Eligible individuals must submit claims by December 31, 2027. The program will end on December 31, 2028. What if affected people have died? Their descendants are eligible for compensation. What should clinicians know about this program? In an interview, Laura Shaw, MD, an associate professor and principal investigator of Nevada's radiation exposure screening program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, noted that eligible people may have moved to other states since they were exposed to radiation. 'Doctors need to encourage patients to apply ASAP,' she said. In addition, 'doctors need to specifically document specific diagnosis for any cancers to help prove eligibility and for potential changes to covered cancers in the future.' She also cautioned that 'there are disreputable people out there charging to help file claims when there are free programs to assist people file.' Shaw also highlighted the Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program, which is separate from RECA and has not been discontinued. Downwinders, uranium workers, and on-site participants can get free health screenings at clinics in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Also, health providers can get funding to offer screenings in those states and Idaho, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. The screenings cover cancer and noncancer conditions. 'We continue to get contacted by individuals who in these communities who have never heard of this program, even though we've been holding clinics since 2005,' Shaw said in an earlier interview. 'Despite outreach activities and advertising through newspapers and radio, we find the most successful method of reaching these patients is through word of mouth — either from other patients or their doctors. That is why we feel it is so important to reach other physicians as well.' It's unclear whether the Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program will be geographically expanded to reflect the growth in eligibility for the RECA program. What about other areas of the country? Initially, congressional legislation expanded eligibility for downwinder compensation to all of Colorado, Montana, and Guam and new parts of Arizona and Nevada, Adams said. But those provisions were not included in the final One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Shaw said. She noted that earlier legislation included all of Nevada's Clark County. Clark County, home to Las Vegas, was a prime spot for nuclear testing. This means that only part of the county will continue to be covered. Why were these areas left out? 'It's probably pretty safe to say it was money,' she said, but discussions happened behind the scenes, and 'this is all sort of a mystery to us.' In another change from previous legislation, a provision was removed that would have made downwinders with CLL eligible for compensation. The Union of Concerned Scientists will continue advocating for wider compensation for radiation exposure and the extension of the program beyond its scheduled end date, Adams said. How are people reacting to the expansion of the compensation program? In Guam, downwinders were disappointed to not be included. Robert Celestial, president of the Pacific Association for Radiation Survivors, told The Guam Daily Post that 'our cancers are no different than cancers for those in the states. And we just got to continue on and try again.' Shaw, the Nevada associate professor, is disappointed that the new legislation boosts compensation for downwinders, but only for those who apply going forward. 'Some patients who filed before the sunset in 2024 are upset that now the reimbursement is higher, and they rushed to get in their claim,' she said. 'There should be a retroactive increase in compensation if the individual is still living.' As for Moench, the Utah advocate physician, the compensation news is good — to a point. Two of his sisters, who had breast cancer, will be eligible for compensation since the disease is covered. An older brother who had cancer of the small intestine is also eligible. In the big picture, however, 'the money that's been paid out is a fraction of what should have been paid out. It doesn't compensate for the deaths that have been caused, for the misery and the suffering.' And, he said, the program doesn't cover much of the US that was exposed to radiation from the nuclear tests of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. A 2023 study suggested that radiation from 94 nuclear weapon tests in the Southwest from 1945 to 1962 reached 46 states along with Canada and Mexico.
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Yahoo
15 Things Happy People Do That Unhappy People Don't Understand
You know that feeling when the sun is out and everything just feels right? Sometimes, it seems like some people are living in that moment all the time. But for others, happiness feels like it's just out of reach. What's their secret? It turns out, happy people tend to do certain things that those who are less happy might not fully grasp. Let's uncover what these happy folks are up to. 1. They Prioritize Time With Loved Ones Happy people make a habit of regularly spending time with friends and family. This isn't just about having a good time; it's about nurturing relationships and feeling connected. When you prioritize relationships, you're investing in your emotional well-being. A study by Dr. Robert Waldinger, a Harvard psychiatrist, highlighted that strong relationships are key to a fulfilled life. So, the next time you're tempted to work late or binge-watch TV alone, remember that happiness may be just a phone call away. On the flip side, some people might not understand why time with loved ones is so crucial. They might feel that their work or personal ambitions are more important. But when you focus solely on individual achievements, it can lead to isolation. Relationships provide support, empathy, and a sense of belonging that achievements alone can't offer. Happy people know that their connections are their greatest assets. 2. They Express Gratitude Every Single Day Gratitude is a regular practice for those who are consistently happy. They take time out of their day to appreciate the small and big things in life. This isn't just about saying thank you; it's about genuinely feeling thankful. Happy people might keep a gratitude journal or simply make a mental note of things they're thankful for. This practice can shift your focus from what's lacking to the abundance around you. For those who are less happy, gratitude can seem like an annoying buzzword. It may appear unrealistic to be thankful when things are going wrong. However, gratitude isn't about ignoring the negatives. It's about acknowledging them while still seeing the positives. Happy people understand that gratitude can transform their perspective, leading to a more content life. 3. They Stay Active And Eat Well Physical activity is a common habit among happy people. They understand that exercise isn't just for physical health; it's a mental booster, too. Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, which naturally elevate your mood. Research by Dr. Michael Otto, a psychology professor, suggests that exercise is a powerful tool for combating depression and boosting happiness. Whether it's a daily walk or a gym session, happy people incorporate movement into their routines. Others might see exercise as a chore or something that only fitness buffs do. This mindset can make it challenging to initiate and sustain an active lifestyle. The key is to find an activity you enjoy, making it a fun part of your day. Even small amounts of movement can lead to significant improvements in mood. Happy people don't look at exercise as a task; it's simply part of how they live well. 4. They Embrace And Channel Positivity Positivity is more than just a mindset; it's a lifestyle for happy people. They choose to see the good in situations, even when things aren't perfect. This doesn't mean they ignore problems but rather that they approach challenges with optimism. They understand that a positive outlook can lead to better problem-solving and resilience. In a world full of negativity, happy people find the silver linings and focus on those. Unhappy people might view positivity as naive or unrealistic. They might feel that acknowledging the negative is more practical or mature. However, constant negativity can be draining and counterproductive. Happy people know that positivity fuels energy and creativity. By focusing on the positive, they can navigate life's ups and downs with more ease and grace. 5. They Set Clear Boundaries Happy people are experts at setting boundaries. They know how to say no when it's necessary to protect their time and energy. Boundaries help them maintain balance in their lives, preventing burnout and resentment. According to Dr. Henry Cloud, a clinical psychologist, setting clear boundaries is essential for healthy relationships and personal well-being. By setting these limits, happy people create a space where they can thrive. Others might find boundary-setting to be difficult or even selfish. They might worry about disappointing others or fear conflict. But without boundaries, it's easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of what's important. Happy people understand that boundaries are a form of self-care. They prioritize their well-being to be their best selves for others. 6. They Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness is a routine practice for those who are happy. They focus on being present in the moment, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This practice helps them enjoy life more fully and reduces stress. Whether it's through meditation, deep breathing, or mindful walking, they find ways to incorporate mindfulness into their day. Being present allows them to experience life's joys and challenges without being overwhelmed. For some, mindfulness might seem like a luxury or a waste of time. They might feel that constant multitasking is the best way to get things done. However, this can lead to burnout and a sense of dissatisfaction. Happy people know that mindfulness increases focus and clarity. By staying present, they handle life's demands with a calm and steady approach. 7. They Seek Out Ways To Grow Happy people actively seek personal growth and development. They regularly set goals and challenge themselves to get out of their comfort zones. This pursuit of growth keeps them engaged and inspired. According to psychologist Carol Dweck, those with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Happy people embrace this mindset, knowing that growth leads to fulfillment. Others might avoid growth opportunities, fearing failure or discomfort. They could see challenges as threats rather than chances to learn. This fear can stifle potential and keep them stuck in routines. Happy people understand that growth often involves setbacks, but they view these as part of the journey. By focusing on personal development, they find purpose and satisfaction in life. 8. They Help Others Without Being Asked Helping others is a core habit of happy people. They find joy in acts of kindness, whether through volunteering, lending a hand, or simply being there for someone. This isn't about grand gestures but about genuine generosity. Helping others fosters a sense of community and connection. Happy people know that when they give, they also receive the gift of fulfillment and joy. Some might not see the value in helping others, thinking it's a drain on their time or resources. They might view personal success as more important than communal well-being. However, focusing solely on oneself can lead to isolation and dissatisfaction. Helping others creates a ripple effect of positivity and goodwill. Happy people understand that by uplifting others, they also uplift themselves. 9. They Live Authentically And According To Their Values Happy people live authentically, true to their values and beliefs. They don't waste energy trying to be someone they're not or conforming to others' expectations. Authenticity brings them a sense of freedom and self-acceptance. By being true to themselves, they attract genuine relationships and opportunities. Happy people know that authenticity is the key to a fulfilling life. Others might struggle with authenticity, caught up in the desire to please others. They may fear judgment or rejection, leading them to put on a façade. But living inauthentically can lead to stress and a lack of fulfillment. Happy people embrace their uniqueness and encourage others to do the same. By living authentically, they find peace and happiness in being who they truly are. 10. They Make Jokes And Laugh Often Laughter is a common trait among happy people. They find humor in everyday situations and don't take themselves too seriously. Laughter relieves stress and improves mood, making life's challenges easier to handle. Happy people surround themselves with those who uplift and bring joy. They know that a good laugh is often the best medicine. Some might see laughter as frivolous or inappropriate in certain situations. They might prioritize seriousness and control over humor. However, this can lead to an overly tense and rigid life. Happy people know that laughter creates bonds and lightens the mood. By embracing humor, they navigate life with joy and resilience. 11. They Embrace Change Head On Change is something happy people aren't afraid of. They understand that life is constantly evolving and that change often brings new opportunities. Rather than resisting, they adapt and find ways to make the best of new circumstances. This flexibility helps them to grow and thrive in different environments. Happy people see change as a natural part of life and an opportunity for renewal. For others, change can be daunting and unsettling. They might prefer stability and predictability, fearing the unknown. This fear can lead to missed opportunities and stagnation. Happy people know that change is inevitable and resisting it can lead to more stress. By embracing change, they open themselves up to growth and new experiences. 12. They Nurture Their Curiosity Happy people have a natural curiosity about the world. They are eager to learn and explore new ideas and experiences. Curiosity keeps them engaged and motivated, sparking inspiration and creativity. Whether it's through reading, traveling, or asking questions, they continuously seek to expand their understanding. Happy people know that a curious mind is a joyful mind. Some might see curiosity as nosiness or a waste of time. They might be content with what they know and see no need to explore further. However, this mindset can lead to a lack of innovation and excitement. Happy people understand that curiosity drives personal growth and discovery. By nurturing their curiosity, they keep life vibrant and interesting. 13. They Engage In Self-Care Rituals Self-care is a priority for happy people. They understand the importance of taking time to recharge and care for themselves. This isn't just about physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Whether it's through hobbies, relaxation, or pampering, they make self-care a regular part of their routine. Happy people know that they can better care for others when they care for themselves first. Others might view self-care as self-indulgent or unnecessary. They might feel guilty for taking time for themselves, seeing it as neglecting responsibilities. However, neglecting self-care can lead to burnout and stress. Happy people recognize that self-care is essential for a balanced life. By prioritizing self-care, they maintain their energy and enthusiasm for life. 14. They Never Make Comparisons Happy people steer clear of the comparison game. They focus on their own journey without getting caught up in what others are doing. This doesn't mean others don't inspire them; they just don't let comparisons diminish their self-worth. They understand that everyone's path is unique and that comparing only leads to unnecessary stress. Happy people know that contentment comes from within, not from measuring up to others. Some might find it hard to resist comparing themselves to others, especially in a world filled with social media. They might feel that they aren't successful unless they match up to others' achievements. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Happy people know that comparisons are futile and often misleading. By focusing on their own progress, they find satisfaction and peace. 15. They Accept And Celebrate Imperfections Imperfections don't bother happy people. They embrace their flaws and understand that nobody is perfect. This acceptance allows them to be more forgiving of themselves and others. They know that mistakes and imperfections are opportunities for growth and learning. Happy people realize that striving for perfection is an unnecessary burden. Others might struggle with accepting imperfections, seeing them as failures. They might pursue perfection to gain acceptance or avoid criticism. However, this pursuit can lead to stress and disappointment. Happy people know that imperfections are part of being human. By accepting them, they find freedom and happiness in being perfectly imperfect. Solve the daily Crossword
