The problem

Ufa is one of most heavily contaminated dioxin sites in Russia. In 1990 a phenol spill at the Khimprom herbicide plant leaked into Ufa’s drinking water supply. An investigation of the impact of this incident on human health revealed that levels of dioxin in the human body in Ufa were ten times background levels. The factory at the center of this contamination has long since been closed. Around 500,000 of petroleum by-products containing dioxin remain stored on the factory premises.

Health Impact

Health studies in Ufa reveal that long term exposure to dioxins has led to high blood pressure, immune system dysfunction, disruption of lipid metabolism, gastrointestinal problems, premature ageing, disruption of the endocrine system and an increase in cancer among its residents.

Generally dioxins are known to cause cancer, immune system suppression and damage to the nervous and reproductive systems.

Current Activity

Further information is required.

Want To Learn More?

• Scientist Join Efforts to Reduce Dioxin Peril
• Russia: Ufa Dioxin Research Program
• The International POPs Elimination Project
• Main Implementation Results of the Federal "Dioxins" Target Program
• Dioxin Homepage