Mass. high school to undergo testing after several female teachers diagnosed with breast cancer

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“It is, of course, possible that these multiple cases are not connected to one another, but out of abundance of caution, we are looking into any environmental factors at the school that may be a factor in their diagnoses.”

A radiologist uses a magnifying glass to check mammograms for breast cancer in Los Angeles, May 6, 2010. Damian Dovarganes / AP, File

State health officials are conducting a series of environmental tests at Uxbridge High School after several female teachers were diagnosed with breast cancer or precancerous conditions in recent years, the district announced Monday.

It remains unclear whether the cases are connected, the principal and superintendent said in the joint statement.

“It is, of course, possible that these multiple cases are not connected to one another,” they said, “but out of abundance of caution, we are looking into any environmental factors at the school that may be a factor in their diagnoses.”

The announcement did not include how many women were affected.

Massachusetts Department of Public Health officials, who were contacted by the district, told school officials that there is no evidence of immediate danger in the building and no reason to limit access to the high school.

DPH officials will visit the school on Thursday, June 4, to conduct a series of air quality tests, and school activities will continue as usual during the visit, according to the district.

The testing will include a comprehensive assessment of the school’s interior and exterior to ensure there are no infrastructure issues that pose a risk, including the building’s electrical, plumbing, mechanical, HVAC, and other systems.

The team is also monitoring both indoor and outdoor air quality on the high school campus for any abnormalities.

Although the high school was constructed in 2012, the evaluation will include research into any previous uses of the site.

State officials already ruled out the water supply as a risk factor after thorough testing, the district said.

Health officials are also conducting research on the cancer cases by age, medical history, genetic history, and other factors to determine whether there is a statistical likelihood of common causes.

The school is keeping the cases confidential.

“We realize that this news may raise particular questions and concerns for students and adults,” the statement said.

“Please be assured that we will keep you informed about any developments. It is important to note that DPH officials have cautioned that in workplace investigations, finding an environmental ‘smoking gun’ is rare.”