Health board trying to determine affect of dioxin exposure

<p>The chairman of the Carroll County Board of Health is considering creating a local cancer-screening program to chart possible long-term effects of exposure to dioxin on the countys residents.</p><p>Dr. George Astin said that the health board studying the concern has had a difficult time collecting data because most cancer statistics are filed on a statewide basis rather than by county.</p><p>The Georgia Public Interest Research Group earlier this year released a report that said the Southwire Co.s copper-smelting plant in operation from 1971 through 2000 had resulted in a potentially dangerous amount of chemical emissions.</p><p>Southwire officials disputed the findings and conducted their own study, which stated the amount of dioxin released by the plant was not significant enough to pose any health risks.</p><p>Information from: Times-Georgian</p>