Survey Finds Depression in Most Bhopal Survivors

More than half of 6,000 tested survivors of the 1984 Bhopal disaster suffer from depression, and many suffer other psychological disorders, according to a study by India’s top medical research group.

The Indian Council of Medical Research said in its report released last week that 57.4% of the 6,000 people surveyed suffered from neurotic depression, 33% from anxiety and 2.1% from hysteria.

The incidence of psychological disorders was the highest in areas closest to the Union Carbide Corp. pesticide plant where methyl isocyanide gas leaked Dec. 3, 1984, killing more than 2,500 people and seriously injuring 40,000.

Near the Bhopal plant, about 133 of every 1,000 people suffered from psychological disorders, the report said. In neighborhoods farther from the plant, about 60 out of every 1,000 people suffered from such disorders.

The report gave no details on the severity of the cases or whether victims are undergoing medical treatment. Excerpts were carried by the United News of India.

Chest Abnormalities

The report also said 4,322 people were tested for chest complaints, and nearly 35% showed abnormalities.

The incidence of cyst development in lymph glands was almost double in areas affected by the gas, compared with other neighborhoods. Of those exposed to the gas, 91% had chronic coughs and 69% suffered from muscle weakness.

Nearly 97% of the people had eye complaints immediately after the gas leak, but no cases of blindness were reported, the report said.

The government-funded research council has conducted 15 long-term studies on the medical effects of the Bhopal gas leak, the world’s worst industrial accident. Other studies have focused on the effects on pregnant women and changes in the physical and mental development of children.

India is seeking $3 billion in compensation for the victims from Union Carbide, which is based in Danbury, Conn.