'No evidence' of kidney cancer cluster near chemical site

There is no evidence of a kidney cancer cluster near a former chemical plant linked to carcinogenic "forever chemicals", a study has found.

The former ICI plant in Thornton Cleveleys has been linked to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Lancashire County Council carried out an assessment of kidney cancer patterns.

But local MP Lorraine Beavers said the study was too "narrow" and has asked the county's public health director Dr Sakthi Karunanithi why the health investigations for those living near the site were limited to one form of cancer.

Dr Karunanithi told the BBC the study had started with "broad screening of all cancers".

A cancer cluster is when more cases occur than would normally be expected in a certain area, according to Cancer Research UK.

Beavers, who is MP for Blackpool North and Fleetwood, said: "There are other cancers that have been linked to PFOA and thyroid disease and worsening reproduction outcomes.

"I feel like the investigation has been too narrow.

"I'm really quite disappointed with the public health that's coming from Lancashire County Council."

PFOAs are used in many everyday products such as school uniforms because of their oil resistant and waterproof properties, but can have long-standing negative effects on the environment.

Investigations are currently under way by the Environment Agency and Wyre Council into the extent and effects of pollution by the chemicals.

Results of soil samples for 71 properties showed concentrations of PFOA, with seven homes being identified as being high risk.

Beavers welcomed the news that no kidney cancer cluster was identified in the community but said it was not enough to reassure residents that their health was not impacted by PFOAs in Thornton Cleveleys.

Beavers told BBC Radio Lancashire the "uncertainty those affected by PFOA from the old ICI/AGC site continue to experience is not good enough".

The public health director defended the research, saying: "The investigation actually began with broad screening of all cancers so the study did start with that."

Karunanithi said there was a "signal" with kidney cancers that "there might be something in there for further investigation and that's what the multi-agency partners did".

He added: "Thankfully we did not find a population level cancer cluster."

Two nearby allotments near the site have been closed while the investigations take place.

People with plots on Occupation Road and Sandringham Avenue have been told to collect their belongings and not consume any produce they have grown.

AGC Chemicals Europe, which now owns and operate part of the former ICI site, stopped using the PFOAs in 2012.

It has previously said its "highest priority" was supporting the community.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.