Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

This study uses spatial analysis and modeling techniques to explore the relationship between historical manufacturing sites and birth defects in Rhode Island. Through secondary data sources, including manufacturing site locations and birth defect rates at the ZIP code level, we conducted spatial analysis and statistical modeling to investigate clustering patterns and associations between manufacturing density and birth outcomes. Our findings revealed significant spatial clustering of manufacturing sites linked to chlorinated solvents for vapor degreasing, particularly in core cities and birth defects. Despite observing statistically significant relationships, the ecological study design and reliance on secondary data introduce limitations, such as the inability to establish causality and the potential for chance associations. Moreover, focusing on ZIP Code level observations may overlook spatial population dynamics and unaccounted-for confounding variables. Nonetheless, this study contributes to unraveling the intricate interactions between historical manufacturing sites and health outcomes, underscoring the necessity of considering environmental exposures among vulnerable populations. Future studies should incorporate additional confounders and utilize more granular data to explain the underlying mechanisms driving the observed relationships. Such insights can inform targeted interventions and policies to mitigate environmental health risks associated with historical manufacturing sites and foster the well-being of vulnerable communities in Rhode Island and beyond.

Keywords: Environmental health, public health, historical manufacturing, birth defects, Rhode Island, United States