ATSDR researchers are examining more than 12,500 surveys from women who were pregnant while living in base housing on the Marine Corps base Camp Lejeune during 1968 to 1985. The survey was conducted to determine the frequency of birth defects in childhood cancers among children who were carried during this time period and who might have been exposed to chemicals while in the womb. The survey phase of the project ended January 26, 2002. However, interested parties may still call the ATSDR toll-free number for information. ATSDR hopes to release the surveys findings by early fall.

Some drinking water wells in operation at Camp Lejeune prior to 1985 were found to be contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE), chemicals used as degreasers and dry cleaning solvents. Information from the survey will be used to determine whether further evaluation is needed.

ATSDR documents regarding Camp Lejeune are available at the following links.

• 1997 Public Health Assessment of Camp Lejeune
• 1998 Health Study of Contaminated Drinking Water at Camp Lejeune

For more information contact the U.S. Marine Corps at 1-877-261-9782, or send an e-mail to www.usmc.mil.

For recent media coverage, see:

• http://www.cnn.com/2000/US/11/01/lejeune.polluted/index.html
• http://abcnews.go.com/sections/us/dailynews/marines001102.html