New analyses find no evidence of higher rates of childhood cancer in Corby

29 January 2026

North Northamptonshire Council has today published the findings of two detailed and independent analyses into childhood cancer rates in Corby.  

The work was completed in response to concerns raised by local families, who feared that more children in the area were being diagnosed with cancer than expected.

One of the analyses was carried out by the council’s analysts using Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) and the other completed independently by the National Disease Registration Service.

Concerns from residents centred on whether historic industrial activity, including the former steelworks and waste disposal at Deene Quarry, could be linked to cancer rates among local children.  

The Director of Public Health (DPH) has a duty to investigate any potential risks to the health of the population and therefore requested a full analysis using NHS data available to the council through an established data sharing agreement.

Alongside the council’s own work, analysts from the National Disease Registration Service were asked to undertake a separate analysis of cancer registration data - considered the most complete and accurate dataset available - including a specific assessment of the area within 5km of Deene Quarry.

The analyses concluded:

• childhood cancer rates in Corby are not higher than in Northamptonshire, the East Midlands or England
• no Corby neighbourhoods (broken down into what are called lower super output areas) had significantly higher rates than the North Northamptonshire average

The findings were independently reviewed by experts from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the analysis of HES data was validated by analysts within the NHS to ensure accuracy.  

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the families who raised these concerns. Their determination, care for their community and willingness to ask difficult questions have been vital in enabling this work to take place. We approached this analysis with seriousness and sensitivity, ensuring the most robust methods were used and that the work was independently reviewed.

The findings provide reassurance that childhood cancer rates in Corby are not higher than expected. However, we recognise the courage it takes for families affected by cancer to share their experiences, and we remain committed to listening, learning and acting on future concerns that may fall within the remit of the council.Jane Bethea, Director of Public Health for North Northamptonshire

I want to thank the residents who brought their concerns forward and everyone involved in this complex and important work. Our priority has always been to ensure our communities have clear, transparent and independently verified information.

These findings will be reassuring for many, and they reflect a great deal of care, professionalism and collaboration between the council, the NHS and national agencies. We will continue to be open with our residents and responsive to their concerns.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council

North Northamptonshire Council is publishing the full reports today. Raw data cannot legally be shared due to strict data protection rules, particularly given the small numbers involved, but all available information has been published openly.

The full reports and overview are available on the North Northamptonshire Council website.