Cancer Risk Analysis in Upper Cape Cod
Author Information
Author(s): Verónica Vieira, Thomas Webster, Janice Weinberg, Ann Aschengrau
Primary Institution: Boston University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Is there a spatial association between residence and the incidence of bladder, kidney, and pancreatic cancer in upper Cape Cod?
Conclusion
The study found significant spatial clustering of bladder cancer near groundwater plumes, suggesting a need for further investigation.
Supporting Evidence
- Bladder cancer showed a significant hot spot near known groundwater plumes.
- Kidney cancer risk was higher in the southern part of the study area.
- Pancreatic cancer analysis indicated spatial confounding was present.
Takeaway
The researchers looked at where people lived and how it might relate to cancer rates, finding that some areas had higher risks, especially near certain pollution sources.
Methodology
The study used generalized additive models (GAMs) to analyze case-control data and mapped spatial odds ratios using GIS.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from multiple residences and non-uniform control selection.
Limitations
The study's reliance on residential history may introduce bias, and the sample size limited some analyses.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly white and over 60 years of age, with a higher proportion of male cases for bladder and kidney cancers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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