Group: Cancer Cluster Concerns are Justified in Woodbridge

There are still many more questions than answers about a possible cancer cluster linked to Colonia High School in Woodbridge.

It is hoped at least some preliminary answers will be gleaned from air, ground, and water samples taken from around the school in a couple of weeks. Results from the analysis of those samples are due by the end of April.

The American Cancer Society has joined the investigation, which was started by Colonia High School graduate Al Lupiano.

Lupiano's wife and late sister both developed brain tumors after attending classes at the school.

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Since he first made the connection, officials have identified 105 people who have contracted brain tumors - about half of them cancerous.

Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society, says brain tumors are relatively rare, "If I were a parent or a community member, I would want to know a little more about what's happening."

Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac is among those concerned. He told us, "Al (Lupiano) has presented enough evidence that warrants further attention, but we have to rely on the experts to draw their conclusions." McCormac, though, is not yet convinced the high school is an actual cancer cluster.

That's not a term Kamal used, either, but admitted the number of tumors was concerning. "It is way more than we would expect over that period of time, and certainly from a town or a high school of that size," Kamal told ABC News.

The Environmental Protection Agency and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection are leading the investigation into the high instances of cancer among Colonia High School students and staff.

This story contains previous reporting from Rick Rickman.

NJ county fairs are back! Check out the 2023 summer schedule

A current list of county fairs happening across the Garden State for 2023. From rides, food, animals, and hot air balloons, each county fair has something unique to offer.

(Fairs are listed in geographical order from South NJ to North NJ)

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

Gallery Credit: Jordan Jansson