June 5, 2026
Media Contact: Linda Scarborough, linda.scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov
LENOWISCO Health District and the Virginia Cancer Registry Share Updated Findings on Scott County Cancer Cluster Investigation
GATE CITY, Va. – The Virginia Cancer Registry (VCR) released its updated investigation report of pediatric cancer data in Scott County that includes preliminary 2024 data. VCR identified three new childhood cancer cases in 2024 – two leukemia cases and one brain tumor. The recent investigation shows that the cancer cases reported between 2015-2024 are not considered a cluster. The VCR used CDC guidelines for examining unusual patterns of cancer to determine if a cancer cluster exists. A cancer cluster must meet five criteria.
- Statistically more people than usual, get the same or related cancers over a specific time.
- Same type of exposure.
- Same population or group of people.
- Same geographic area.
- Same time period.
The investigation did not include environmental testing, since cancer patterns did not suggest a relationship to environmental factors/causes. If future reviews of cancer data show that environmental testing is needed, VCR would partner with state and federal agencies to collect this information.
The recent investigation is in response to community concerns regarding a potential cancer cluster. VCR continued monitoring pediatric cancer case in 2024 after releasing an initial report in January 2026.
VCR will continue monitoring Scott County and assessing pediatric cancer cases as part of its ongoing investigation. The LENOWISCO Health District and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recognize the community’s concern and will support the community during this ongoing process. VCR will provide regular updates. A frequently asked questions (FAQ) document is available for more information. The community can also email scottcancerinfo@vdh.virginia.gov for help.
VDH encourages the community to continue following standard public health recommendations.
- Test home for radon
- Test private wells
- Stay informed
- ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation
- Blood Cancer United (formally Leukemia and Lymphoma Society)
- Coalition Against Childhood Cancer
For information on the original report, visit the VDH Cancer Cluster Information website.