Following a report from a member of the public, 9 pediatric cancers* were identified among the 12 cancers reported in the Ste Pazanne area (municipalities: Ste Pazanne, St Mars de Coutais, Ste Hilaire de Chaléons, and Rouans). Of these 9 pediatric cancers, 6 are blood cancers.

Although 90% of acute childhood leukemias currently have no known cause and there may be multiple risk factors associated with cancers, the ARS has referred the matter to Santé publique France to continue the investigation. The study to be conducted by SpF aims to identify any potential common exposures. It is based on a standardized protocol consisting of:

• Verifying that the cases meet the same clinical definition

• Defining the geographic and temporal scope of the cases studied

• Assessing whether there is a genuine excess of observed cancer cases in the study area compared to what is typically expected in that same area

• Reviewing the literature on risk exposures to be investigated

• Conducting a survey of each of the affected families to document risk exposures, particularly environmental ones.

This initial phase, conducted in collaboration with all local partners (Nantes University Hospital, the Loire-Atlantique and Vendée General Tumor Registry, etc.) and national partners (the National Childhood Cancer Registry, etc.), should enable the identification of hypotheses to guide further investigations.

The initial findings will be released in the fall of 2019, with a report provided to the affected families first.

An informational meeting will soon be organized by the ARS for healthcare professionals in the Ste Pazanne area.

Reminder of leukemia symptoms

Leukemias are the most common cancers in children. The symptoms are nonspecific and should raise concern if they are recurrent or persistent. Leukemia is caused by an invasion of the blood by abnormal white blood cells that replace normal blood cells: red blood cells, normal white blood cells, and platelets.

• A decrease in red blood cells (anemia) will result in extreme fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, and feeling unwell.

• A decrease in normal white blood cells leads to recurrent infections, particularly sore throats.

• A decrease in platelets leads to bleeding symptoms, particularly bruising.

Other possible signs (not an exhaustive list): joint pain, limping, and enlarged lymph nodes and spleen.

If you have concerns, it is advisable to consult your primary care physician, who will determine whether a blood test is necessary. There is no need to have blood tests performed on children who show no symptoms.