Unusual Patterns of Cancer, the Environment, and Community Concerns

Cancer is a group of diseases in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. As a group, cancers are very common. Given the frequency that cancer is diagnosed, situations may arise where an unusual number of cancers are diagnosed among people in a particular location. State, tribal, local, and territorial health departments, along with cancer registries, respond to community inquiries about these unusual patterns of cancer. CDC/ATSDR provides technical assistance to states when requested and develops guidance on how to respond to community cancer concerns.