In a wealthy area of California, parents are increasingly worried after the state released cancer statistics, which some believe connect years of pesticide use to a surge of rare childhood cancers. Families from Ladera Ranch in Orange County have been urging authorities to delve into whether environmental factors could be behind the disturbing number of Ewing sarcoma cases among their children.
Health officials haven’t confirmed any direct link, but community members feel the recent data has prompted even more questions. The California Cancer Registry reported under ten Ewing sarcoma cases in Ladera Ranch over a decade that ended in 2021. However, many parents feel this information is already outdated.
The data doesn’t capture cases reported after 2021, including that of 17-year-old Brody Matteson, who lost his battle with a rare cancer in March 2026. Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley mentioned, “If that number has grown, we should be concerned about what it means.” She has repeatedly asked for a map that shows where these cases are located but hasn’t received one, increasing frustrations among families.
Instead of alleviating fears, the state’s numbers have only intensified demand for clarity. Many families believe the extensive application of pesticides and herbicides throughout their neighborhood could be a contributing environmental factor. “It feels unreal just how many kids are getting sick,” said resident Karen Smith, stressing the community’s need for understanding.
Families have also expressed concerns beyond just Ewing sarcoma. Jessica Keetch shared that her daughter, Haven, who is 18, lost her leg due to synovial sarcoma, another rare cancer affecting under 1,000 Americans annually. This growing anxiety has caught the attention of federal officials.
First Assistant US Attorney Bill Essayli has reached out to the Environmental Protection Agency, urging an investigation into potential environmental links to the rising number of cancer cases in the area. In his communication, he acknowledged residents’ worries and the need for a thorough examination.
In parallel, a legal firm named Bond Legal has started its inquiry, seeking information from families of children diagnosed with rare cancers who lived in or frequented Ladera Ranch. Their investigation aims to look into possible environmental exposures, including past pesticide uses and soil conditions.
