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Oil and Gas Pollution Linked to 91,000 U.S. Deaths

8/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Air pollution from oil and gas causes 91,000 early deaths and over 10,000 preterm births annually in the U.S., impacting racial minorities disproportionately.
The end-use stage of oil and gas accounts for 96% of health-related issues.
California, Texas, and New York face the highest health burdens, worsened by systemic inequities.
Findings from 2017 likely underestimate the current health toll due to increased production and consumption.

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Story summary

Air pollution from oil and gas causes 91,000 early deaths and over 10,000 preterm births annually in the U.S., impacting racial minorities disproportionately.
The end-use stage of oil and gas accounts for 96% of health-related issues.
California, Texas, and New York face the highest health burdens, worsened by systemic inequities.
Findings from 2017 likely underestimate the current health toll due to increased production and consumption.