Frequently asked questions about research into environmental factors and childhood cancer
For a long time, childhood cancer was thought to be largely a matter of bad luck: cell growth in the developing body goes awry. The assumption was that children had not lived long enough to be exposed to carcinogenic substances or other environmental factors, such as air pollution.
In approximately one in ten children with cancer, an inherited DNA mutation contributes to the development of the disease. Since the 1990s, however, there has been an increase in the number of adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer. There is growing evidence that environmental factors may be responsible for part of this increase.
To investigate this, researchers from nine European countries and Canada, led by the Princess Máxima Center for pediatric oncology, will search for substances that may be carcinogenic in children and young adults. With their research, the team aims to contribute to improved regulations that could help prevent some cases of childhood cancer in the future.
We understand that this research may raise questions. Below, you will find answers to some frequently asked questions. If your question is not listed here, please contact communication@prinsesmaximacenter.nl and include “Research into Environmental Factors” in the subject line.
1. Why is this research being conducted?
Researchers have observed that the number of teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer has been increasing for some time. This suggests that environmental factors may play a larger role than previously thought.
Through this large-scale study, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of which environmental factors may contribute to the development of cancer in children and young people. Ultimately, they aim to identify opportunities to prevent some cases in the future.
2. Does this mean that childhood cancer is caused by environmental factors?
Not necessarily. For many years, childhood cancer was believed to arise mainly due to chance errors during normal cell growth.
In some children (around 1 in 10), inherited genetic factors play a role.
This study is investigating whether environmental factors may also contribute. That does not mean there is a single, clear cause; in many cases, cancer is likely the result of a combination of factors.
3. Which environmental factors are being studied?
The researchers are examining a range of potential influences, including:
Air pollution
Pesticides
Substances found in food
Chemicals such as PFAS
Newer exposures, such as vaping products
The study focuses particularly on exposures before birth and during the first years of life. The scientists are also looking at exposures across generations.
4. Should I be worried about my child?
We understand that this type of news can raise questions and concerns. At this stage, we do not yet know which environmental factors may play a role.
It is important to know that:
This research is intended to provide greater clarity.
There are currently no new recommendations for parents or children.
Based on what we know today, most cases of childhood cancer cannot be prevented.
5. Did I do something wrong if my child has (or had) cancer?
In this new study, scientists are investigating whether certain environmental factors contribute to the development of cancer.
Some environmental exposures are beyond the control of parents, such as air pollution or other substances present in the living environment. Other factors may be influenced by individual choices. However, at this stage, it is not yet clear which factors truly contribute to the development of childhood cancer or how large their impact may be. That is exactly what this research aims to discover.
6. What could this research achieve?
The research consists of several stages:
Combining data on cancer diagnoses and environmental exposures
Testing substances in the laboratory
Investigating whether those substances can actually cause cancer
If researchers identify factors that increase cancer risk and that can be reduced or avoided, this could help to:
Improve regulations and public policy
Reduce harmful exposures
Prevent some cases of childhood cancer in the future
7. When will the results be available?
This is a large and comprehensive international study. It will take several years before clear results become available.
8. Will my child be asked to participate in this study?
No. This research uses data and, in some cases, biological samples (such as blood samples) that have already been collected through previous or ongoing studies.
If you or your child are ever invited to participate in research, you will always receive clear information beforehand and can decide for yourself whether or not to take part.
9. Is there anything I can do to reduce the risk?
Because it is not yet known exactly which environmental factors may play a role, there are currently no specific new recommendations.
General health advice remains important, such as:
Maintaining a healthy diet
Avoiding smoking around children
Providing a healthy living environment
10. Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions about this research or concerns about your child, please contact your lead physician or a member of your care team.
11. Why is this research important?
If researchers can identify even a single avoidable factor that increases the risk of childhood cancer, it could represent a major breakthrough.
Such knowledge could help protect children and young people and reduce the risk of cancer in future generations.