EAST PALESTINE — A peer-reviewed pilot study led by the University of Kentucky analyzed blood samples from East Palestine residents and found elevated biomarkers of exposure and inflammation. The study identified higher numbers of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels in residents compared to a control group, alongside signs of inflammation.

East Palestine residents in the study also showed an increase in cells that remove chemicals from the body and higher levels of proteins that repair tissue damage. Conversely, they exhibited lower numbers of cells that fight infection. Erin Haynes, a University of Kentucky study co-author, stated, "This pilot shows evidence that the bodies of those who lived in close proximity to the site were still fighting and repairing from a toxic exposure." She added, "It looks like their bodies were fighting an infection, but it was probably the exposure."

Researchers plan to examine a larger group of residents and first responders for these health issues. The study authors noted that their findings do not prove the train derailment caused the observed changes, nor that any individual has an illness or will develop future health problems.

Dozens of cars on a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed and burned in East Palestine, Ohio, in February 2023. Officials conducted a controlled burn of vinyl chloride two days after the derailment. Regulators lifted an evacuation order in February 2023, stating that air monitoring showed no risks from volatile organic compounds.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency previously found dioxin levels 14 times higher than safe limits in the immediate vicinity of the derailment. Jessica Boersma, an East Palestine city council member who lives less than a quarter mile from the derailment site, had blood drawn six months after the incident that showed signs of chronic inflammation and altered cell counts. Boersma reported gall bladder pain, irregular menstrual cycles, elevated cortisol levels, and an itchy throat and nose in the six months following the wreck. "I feel pretty normal now, but I'm interested in getting involved because I want proof – clinical, and black-and-white data – that show health markers that I could follow," Boersma said.

Ron and Peggy Caratelli, who live approximately eight-tenths of a mile from the wreck site, evacuated for about one month after the derailment. Their blood tests did not show markers of immune system impacts.