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the group formed to investigate the matter. Indian River County does not stand out in the incidence of childhood cancers. We have had 12 cancers, 11 brain and central nervous system, and have not had a case since 1994. Officials from St Lucie County went back into the information to make sure the report was correct and found some discrepancies. The experts also noted a variety of cancers were reported and finding the causative agent would be even more difficult. According to the U.S. Census, Indian River County had a 5.6 increase in cancers in children under the age of 5 and St Lucie County had a 9.6 increase in these same children under the age of 5. Also an investigation by the American Cancer Society found they were unable to associate exposure to TCE and these cancers. The - approach taken by the Department of Health, is an ongoing controlled scientific study investigating 31 cases to assess the air, water and soil. The Health Department is watching this study and does not claim to have all of the answers. Commissioner Macht stated that he became interested in this subject in 1995, when there were 4 cases of multiforma cancer; all of which were fatal and one of which was his dear wife. He subsequently met 3 persons who had spinal tumors, all of who have passed away since that time. He called the cancer centers in Houston and Kansas City and asked their experience and was told they had 2 cases in Houston and none in Kansas City. There were 4 in Indian River County. Commissioner Eggert emphasized that Jean Kline has been wonderful about bringing reports to the Primary Care Committee and asked that she report any updates, as it would be very informative for all of us. Ms. Kline assured the Board that the Health Department does not mean to minimise this situation and will watch the results very carefully. Mike Galanis, Director of Environmental Health, wanted it noted that Piper, through the years, has attempted cleanup of the situation and has made progress. The EPA standard is for drinking water rather than groundwater and there is very little drinking water supplied from any private wells in this area. The City operates the drinking water plant and tests have shown the level of TCE to be way below the national standard in this drinking water. This spill is not the only incidence in Indian River County but is one of hundreds in this community and one of hundreds of thousands in the state. JANUARY 13, 1998 -45- BOOK PAGE