Researchers to share findings of study on health impacts of Winston Weaver fire

Researchers studying the health impacts of the 2022 Winston Weaver fertilizer plant fire will share preliminary findings with the community this weekend.

The study, led by Atrium Wake Forest Baptist in partnership with Neighbors for Better Neighborhoods and Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras, began more than a year ago. Researchers first conducted an environmental assessment of the air, water, and soil in the area surrounding the Weaver plant. Dr. Callie Brown, the study’s principal investigator, says all samples collected were within normal ranges. 

“It is consistent with what the city and EPA showed," she said. "So I think that’s reassuring that everybody who was doing the testing is finding similar results.” 

Investigators also conducted interviews with 39 Black and Latino residents of neighborhoods near the plant. Brown says they reported significant emotional, financial, and health impacts. 

“Many residents reported continuing respiratory effects and health effects from the fire, even a year out. One participant had over $1,000 in medical bills, and multiple participants were still seeing a physician for symptoms that started after the fire,” said Brown.

Analysts are now studying the anonymized medical records of 2,500 affected residents to get a better idea of potential long-term health effects. Brown says they’re using the data in part to determine whether residents visited emergency rooms more frequently or were diagnosed with new respiratory illnesses in the months after the fire. 

That part of the study will be completed in the coming months. 

Residents living within a two-mile radius of the plant are invited to hear the results of the preliminary research at a community forum this Saturday from 2 to 5 p.m. at 1650 Ivy Ave.