By Ivan Flores Martinez

Illegal fuel pipeline tapping in Mexico poses significant security and environmental challenges with substantial public health implications. Using data from the Mexican Life and Family Survey, this study identifies both the immediate and long-term regional impacts of hydrocarbon theft on respiratory health. Our findings show that municipalities with tapping incidents have a 7.8% increase in allergy prevalence, especially within 1,500 meters of pipelines, predominantly affecting men. Asthma shows a complex pattern, with minors under 18 in affected areas having a 1.6% higher probability of reporting symptoms. This study provides the first causal evidence linking illegal fuel extraction to adverse respiratory health outcomes, suggesting anti-theft enforcement strategies should include targeted health interventions like enhanced air quality monitoring and respiratory health screening. These insights are crucial for public health responses in similar contexts globally.