Important resource assists in health care

Line 5 critical to equipment, supplies and medicines

Nov. 2, 2022

Approximately 264,000 people—including 2,400 men—are diagnosed each year in the U.S.

In 2021, it became the most common cancer worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.

In 2022, expectations are that more than 300,000 people in the U.S. alone will receive a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Accounting for approximately 13% of all new annual cancer cases, early diagnosis remains one of the most critical tools in the treatment of breast cancer.

Health-care practitioners and patients have a reliable, often unknown resource assisting in the diagnostic and treatment process of cancer, as well as routine health care: Enbridge Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac.

From mammography machines and computers to gloves, masks, gowns, microscopes, stethoscopes, and tubing, the natural gas liquids and light crude oil transported safely each day through Line 5 play a vital role in health care. Crude oil also is a primary, base ingredient in the manufacture of more than 80% of all pharmaceuticals.

“We seldom think of the importance product from Line 5 plays in health care,” said Kate Houchard, Enbridge’s area manager for Line 5 operations in the Great Lakes, “but petroleum plays an essential role. We are thankful for the medical advancements, treatments and technologies available today, and proud that Enbridge’s Line 5 plays a pivotal role.”

The Line 5 pipeline transports up to 540,000 barrels per day of light crude oil, light synthetic crude and natural gas liquids. More than 65% of the Upper Peninsula and 55% of the state rely on Line 5 to meet their propane demand. In addition to its role in health care, product from Line 5 provides fuel for transportation and is critical to the manufacturing of more than 6,000 items.

“With that in mind, the Great Lakes Tunnel is the next step in our plan to keep Line 5 operating safely and meeting the energy demands of those who rely most on Line 5,” said Houchard. “As part of our overall commitment to safety and health, we also encourage people to get the facts on breast cancer.”

Every October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Learn additional information on breast cancer from the American Cancer Society and breastcancer.org