Collegium Ramazzini Statement: Need to Enhance Research and Strengthen Policy for Prevention of Childhood Cancer

Incidence rates of many childhood cancers are on the rise, and overall incidence has increased by about 1% per year on average in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America over the past several decades. Many pediatric cancers are associated with hazardous exposures in the environment. Therefore, these cancers are preventable. A growing scientific literature links increased risk for childhood cancer to a range of chemical exposures during preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood. Tobacco, benzene, and ionizing radiation are among the prenatal exposures linked to pediatric cancer. A growing body of evidence suggests that exposures to pesticides and outdoor air pollution are additional risk factors for pediatric cancer. Breastfeeding and prenatal folic acid use are protective against pediatric cancer. The Collegium Ramazzini recommends a series of actions to enhance research and strengthen policies, aiming to reduce children's exposures to carcinogens, implement preventive measures during pregnancy, and increase funding for prevention research in pediatric cancer.