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Home > About us > Media centre > Latest news >Publication Date: 29 April 2008
CLIC Sargent statement in response to research claiming that children who attend playgroups cut their risk of childhood leukaemia
Dr Carole Easton, Chief Executive of CLIC Sargent, says: “As the UK’s leading children’s cancer charity, CLIC Sargent is concerned that parents will be alarmed by the childhood leukaemia headlines that appeared in press on Tuesday 29 April. And we urge them not to panic.
“Parents who are concerned should be reassured that leukaemia in childhood remains a relatively rare disease with survival rates continuing to increase.
“The cause of leukaemia and most other childhood cancers is not known and the case for these being caused by infections or of early exposure to infection offering protection, is as yet unproven.
“What this study does say is that there is a need for further comprehensive research. Until we have conclusive evidence then we cannot say for certain what causes childhood leukaemia.
“CLIC Sargent is there to support families affected by childhood cancer and leukaemia every step of the way and provides a free helpline for anyone concerned or keen to get more information."
The Child Cancer Helpline is available Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm on 0800 197 0068, or you can email at helpline@clicsargent.org.uk