Environment May Be Linked to Rising Leukemia
 (London, Reuters Health, 9/6/04)

Researchers who spoke at a conference organized by a leading British charity that is devoted to curing leukemia agreed that evidence suggests that sharp increases in the risk of developing the disease may be attributable to environmental causes. The scientists agreed that something that occurs in the womb predisposes children to the illness and they point to a host of possible triggers, including chemicals, ionizing radiation, electromagnetic fields, viruses infections and pesticides. According to Professor Alan Preece of the University of Bristol, animal studies show that environmental agents can cross the placenta and accumulate in the organs of the fetus.