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First International Scientific Conference on Childhood Leukaemia

Incidence, causal mechanisms and prevention

Major advances in treatment have seen a significant increase in 5-year survival rates – from under 5% in the early 1960s to over 80% for the commonest type of childhood leukaemia. But, this success has come at a price. We now know that survivors face higher risks of developing another cancer or other potentially serious health problems. Another major worry is that the incidence of leukaemia in the under 5s is rising – and we don't know why.

These concerns are bringing together international experts from Europe, Australia, Asia and the USA to present new data and to exchange information on every aspect of incidence, potential causes and possibilities for prevention. Topics from invited speakers include:

• Time trends in incidence
• Possible role of viruses and infections
• Molecular mechanisms
• Leukaemia clusters
• Radiation – including maternal and paternal exposure, CT scanning, radiation discharges, EMF, light emission…..
• Air pollution
• Placental transfer to the foetus
• Risk assessment, safety precautions and policy options
• Future research priorities

There will also be poster presentations of further new data.

Registration is free for bona fide media on presentation of official press credentials at the conference press office or by pre-registering. You are welcome to attend all sessions.

A news briefing will be held on the opening morning (Monday 6 September). A second media alert with more details will be sent to you in due course.

In the meantime, visit http://www.leukaemiaconference.org/ for full details of the programme and speakers, or contact:

Tina Price (Tina Price Consultants): Tel: +44 (0)2380 454570. Email: tina@tinapriceconsultants.com or
Margaret Willson (MW Communications): 44-153-677-2181. Email: m.willson@mwcommunications.org.uk

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