Lacq Industrial Park: Launch of the pilot phase of the participatory health study
Santé publique France is launching the pilot phase of a participatory health study among residents of the Lacq industrial area (Pyrénées-Atlantiques) between February 24 and March 25, 2023, covering an area comprising 99 municipalities located at varying distances from the industrial facilities.
The Lacq industrial complex is located northwest of Pau, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. It is a major industrial complex that has been home to numerous specialized companies for 60 years, particularly in the fields of natural gas extraction, thio-chemistry, fine chemicals, and green chemistry. In 2015, Santé publique France was asked to assess the health impacts on the populations living near the industrial basin, as well as the appropriateness and feasibility of establishing epidemiological surveillance. In response to this request, Santé publique France has been developing a multi-stage approach since 2016 and has conducted epidemiological studies in this area: a local study of expectations and context, as well as mortality and morbidity studies—feasibility component.
In addition to the work already underway, Santé publique France is launching a new study on the health and quality of life of residents living near the Lacq industrial area in 2023, with a four-week pilot phase beginning in late February. A large-scale rollout is planned for the fall.
Why conduct this participatory health study?
The numerous industrial activities in the Lacq basin are sources of environmental pollution. They release chemical substances, some of which are odorous, and may also cause noise and/or light pollution. These emissions can cause varying degrees of discomfort and are likely to affect the health and quality of life of those exposed to them.
This participatory study, conducted among the general population, aims to gather information directly from residents living near the industrial basin, through an individual questionnaire, regarding their health status and their perception of the environment and local pollution, and to analyze the links between the two. It will thus make it possible to assess quality of life and health effects that are not recorded in medical-administrative databases.
The pilot phase, meanwhile, will allow us to test the questionnaire and participation procedures with about 100 people before rolling out the full-scale study to approximately 2,000 people.
Who is involved in this pilot phase of the study?
The study involves adults and children who have lived for more than 6 months in an area comprising 99 municipalities located at varying distances from industrial facilities. Participants selected at random will be invited to complete a survey questionnaire.
A study developed in collaboration with local residents
In the spirit of openness to society, Santé publique France sought to collaborate with local residents and community organizations to develop a study that best addresses the public’s health concerns and expectations. This fourth phase of studies conducted by Santé publique France in the area began with five public workshops held between November 2021 and April 2022. This contribution by local stakeholders and citizens to the participatory process alongside scientists aims to:
address local health concerns and information needs;
enrich the study with residents’ knowledge and expertise;
jointly develop the survey questionnaire (identifying topics of interest, drafting questions, etc.);
discuss the study’s results and develop public health recommendations.
A new citizen workshop will be organized following the pilot phase to discuss potential changes to the questionnaire and to discuss the most appropriate ways to inform the public about the study’s rollout on a larger scale at the end of 2023 and to ensure the widest possible participation.
surveys/studies
Learn more about the participatory study
In late 2023, Santé publique France conducted an epidemiological study on the health and quality of life of residents living near the Lacq industrial area, building on the work already underway in...
