North Country region concerned by prevalence of rare cancer
Spectrum News • • health
Key Points:
- Jefferson County, New York, is rallying around young students Hunter Stoffel and Ashton Marcum, both diagnosed with the rare bone cancer Ewing sarcoma, a disease affecting about 250 children annually in the U.S.
- The local community has seen multiple cases of Ewing sarcoma in recent years, including three others, two of whom have died, prompting concerns about potential environmental factors.
- Families and advocates, led by Lisa Wilson, are raising awareness and urging state and local authorities to investigate possible causes, highlighting the emotional toll on the community.
- Medical experts note that early detection can improve survival rates to around 80%, but outcomes worsen significantly if the cancer has spread widely by diagnosis.
- While New York State Department of Health is monitoring the situation, unlike similar clusters elsewhere, no extensive environmental testing has yet been initiated, leaving families seeking more concrete answers.
