Newsroom

Houston, Texas — A recent study conducted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) revealed higher-than-expected cancer rates in parts of East Harris County, including near the San Jacinto River Waste Pits Superfund Site.

Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee gave the following statement in response to the findings:

“These findings are deeply concerning and reinforce what residents in these communities have feared for years. People deserve answers, and they deserve action. The state must do everything in its power to fully understand these findings and ensure that residents have the information and resources they need.

There is more work to be done, and we need state and federal agencies to take immediate steps, including:

• More research to determine the causes behind these elevated cancer rates
• Expanded monitoring in affected areas
• Better health data collection to identify patterns and risks
• Transparency with residents about all findings
• A clear plan to address public health concerns

The Harris County Attorney's Office stands with affected communities. We will continue advocating for their right to live in safe, healthy environments and holding polluters accountable. We will work with all stakeholders to ensure this troubling situation gets the urgent attention it deserves.”