A Ewing Sarcoma Cluster in Ladera Ranch?
Our neighbors in Ladera Ranch have been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons: Community members have identified at least six children and young adults diagnosed with the rare cancer Ewing sarcoma between 2013 and 2024.
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive cancer that starts in bone or soft tissue and occurs most often in children, teenagers and young adults. About 200 children and teens are diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in the U.S. each year, according to the American Cancer Society.
The most recent case to receive widespread attention was 17-year-old Brody Matteson, who played on the offensive line at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. He died in March after battling the disease for 20 months.
Why Ladera Ranch Residents Are Concerned
The number of cases has Ladera Ranch residents concerned about possible environmental causes. Pesticide use and old oil and gas wells beneath the community have been cited as possible factors. Some residents have also raised concerns about emissions from the nearby Prima Deshecha Landfill.
But it's important to note that no environmental cause of Ewing sarcoma has been established. The American Cancer Society says the risk factors for Ewing sarcoma are not known and that no lifestyle-related or environmental causes have been identified.
The Ladera Health Watch coalition was formed this past spring to advocate for a thorough environmental-health review of the neighborhood. Residents, researchers, public agencies, HOA leaders, board members and policymakers are working together to investigate environmental health concerns, advocate for organic land care, improve transparency and reduce preventable exposures.
What California Is Doing About It
The Ladera Health Watch coalition was formed this past spring to advocate for a thorough environmental-health review of the neighborhood. Residents, researchers, public agencies, HOA leaders, board members and policymakers are working together to investigate environmental health concerns, advocate for organic land care, improve transparency and reduce preventable exposures.
State Sen. Catherine Blakespear, whose district includes Mission Viejo and Ladera Ranch, recently sent residents information about the state's investigation into the cancer concerns. In her email, Blakespear said she is “actively collaborating with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) concerning the potential existence of a cancer cluster within the Ladera Ranch community.”
According to CDPH, its California Cancer Registry, in coordination with the Cancer Registry of Greater California, is reviewing cancer incidence data for Ladera Ranch in response to community concerns. The department says the assessment is expected to be completed in fall 2026 and that it will share its findings when the assessment is complete.
“I remain committed to listening to the community, seeking answers, and keeping residents informed throughout this process,” Blakespear wrote.
