Cancer Clusters

What is a Cancer Cluster?

Cancer clusters are defined as the occurrence of a greater than expected number of cases within a group of people, a geographic area or a period of time. Cancer Clusters may be suspected when people report that several family members, friends, neighbors or co-workers have been diagnosed with cancer. Reported disease clusters of any kind, including suspected cancer clusters, are investigated by epidemiologists (scientists who study the frequency and distribution of diseases in populations), who use their knowledge of diseases, environmental science, lifestyle factors and biostatistics to try to determine whether a suspected cluster represents a true excess of cancer cases.

Want to Know More?

Please see the following links for additional information on cancer cluster investigations.

If you have any questions or would like to report a suspected cancer cluster, please email epitox@dshs.texas.gov

 

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