Long-Awaited Study Focuses On Air Quality, Children

Children ages 7, 8, and 9 years old are of interest in a new study going on in East Liverpool, a study that some feel has taken way too long to happen.

After 25 years of hard work, citizens of East Liverpool are finally in the process of getting what they want.

"A long, long time to get to this point, and this is just really the first step," resident Alonzo Spencer said.

Spencer is talking about improving the air quality in the city, and a new study will focus on the children from the area, a place known to have problems.

"East Liverpool is one community in the nation that was deemed in the first percentile of worst air quality near schools. Marietta, Ohio, had some schools in that first percentile list also," Dr. Erin Haynes of the University of Cincinnati said.

More specifically, Haynes will look at the amounts of airborne manganese, a metal that has serious effects at high amounts.

"They even coined a term, 'Manganese Madness,' where miners of manganese would have convulsions or hallucinations, mood disturbances and motor dysfunction," Haynes said.

Haynes said parents should not be concerned at this point, but she does encourage them to participate in the study.

Spencer, however, is still concerned, but he does think this is a good start for the area.

"I'm very concerned, very concerned about at least two elements -- the children and the senior citizens, and of course, all those in between, but we think its win-win, plus-plus situation," Spencer said.

Haynes said she is still looking for participants. Anyone who is interested in the study can call Haynes toll-free at 866-247-3299 for more information and to schedule an appointment. The study will be conducted on Nov. 4 and 5 at the Kent State University branch campus in East Liverpool. Families who participate will receive $50 for their time and travel.