Risk factors for testicular cancer: a case-control study in twins
1999
Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer in Twins
Sample size: 60
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Swerdlow A J, Stavola B L De, Swanwick M A, Mangtani P, Maconochie N E S
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Are early life and anthropometric factors associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer in twins?
Conclusion
Twins with longer arms and legs have a significantly raised risk of testicular cancer, suggesting that growth factors before puberty may contribute to the disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Twins with longer arms and legs had a significantly raised risk of testicular cancer.
- There was a significant excess of testicular cancer in non-twin brothers of affected twins.
- The study suggests a genetic component in the aetiology of testicular cancer.
Takeaway
This study found that twins with longer limbs are more likely to get testicular cancer, which might be linked to how they grew up.
Methodology
A case-control study comparing affected male twins with their unaffected co-twins.
Participant Demographics
Male twins from England and Wales.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website