Uxbridge is investigating a possible environmental cause behind breast cancer cases among high school teachers
Overview:
An Uxbridge high school is being investigated for a possible environmental cause after several female teachers developed breast cancer, although officials say there is no evidence of an increased risk or a confirmed link.
Uxbridge Public Schools has launched an environmental investigation at Uxbridge High School after several female teachers were diagnosed with breast cancer or other dangerous conditions in the past few years, district leaders announced this week.
In a June 1 letter to families and staff, Superintendent David Ljungberg and Uxbridge High School Principal Michael Rubin said the cases may not be connected, but the district is investigating possible incidents at the school “out of an abundance of caution.” The announcement came one day after the district celebrated the commencement of the class of 2026.
“It is unfortunate that we have to follow this happy event with more sobering news,” administrators wrote, adding that they briefed high school staff on what they know so far at the same meeting this afternoon.
State and local health agencies are involved
County officials said that when they saw the situation, they contacted the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Uxbridge Board of Health for guidance. The district has been working with pathologists, environmentalists and other scientists from both fields.
According to the letter, DPH officials stated that there is no evidence of immediate danger to the building and there is no reason to limit access or use of the facility at this time. State officials also praised the district for bringing complaints forward, cooperating in the analysis and committing to open communication with the school community.
DPH officials visited the school on Thursday, June 4, to conduct a series of air quality tests, with classes and other activities going on as usual during site visits.
That’s what testing is all about
State and local officials weighed several factors as part of the review:
- Location: A comprehensive inspection of the building’s interior and exterior, including electrical, plumbing, mechanical and HVAC systems, to rule out infrastructure risks.
- Water: After the inspection, state officials have already dismissed the water supply as dangerous.
- Air quality: Monitoring both the indoor and outdoor air on the high school campus for any irregularities.
- Local area: Research on previous land use. The high school was built in 2012.
Health officials also study diagnosed cases by taking into account age, medical history, genetic history, specific diagnoses and other factors – to assess the statistical likelihood of a common cause. The team asked the teachers involved to share information to determine if their cases are related, the district said the women cooperated.
“Obviously, we respect their confidentiality in all of these matters, and we ask everyone to do the same,” the administration wrote. “Above all, we wish them a full and speedy recovery.”
This is not the first time DPH has tested air quality in Uxbridge schools. The agency previously conducted air quality checks at both McCloskey Middle School and Taft Elementary School in 2014.
The union supports the investigation
The Uxbridge Teachers Association released a statement praising the work of management and local health officers and their support for affected teachers.
“The district has always kept staff informed throughout this process and is supporting teachers with their treatment,” the union wrote. It added that although early indications show that there are no environmental factors at the high school that put students and staff at risk of breast cancer, the organization “fully supports the investigation by public health professionals and urges members to assist as much as possible in this work.”
In a town of about 15,000 people, the news has caused concern among community members.
Support and next steps
District leaders say counselors are available at the high school for anyone who needs support, and encourage students and staff at other Uxbridge schools to contact their school counselor or principal with questions.
Officials cautioned that finding an environmental “smoking gun” in workplace investigations is rare. Even though no direct causal link has been established, administrators say they use the process to rigorously test the building and ensure it meets all safety standards. A final public report from DPH detailing all restrictions and any hazards identified, including hazards such as allergens, will be shared with families and staff.
The administration urged the public not to speculate or make conclusions that are not supported by facts. “The health and safety of all our students and staff remains our top priority,” they wrote.
