Serum Ceruloplasmin and Cancer Risk in Finland
Author Information
Author(s): P. Knekt, A. Aromaa, J. Maatela, A. Rissanen, M. Hakama, R.-K. Aaran, T. Nikkari, T. Hakulinen, R. Peto, L. Teppo
Primary Institution: Social Insurance Institution, Helsinki and Turku; Finnish Cancer Registry, Helsinki; Department of Public Health, University of Tampere, Tampere; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland; ICRF Cancer Studies Unit, University of Oxford, UK.
Hypothesis
Is there a relationship between serum ceruloplasmin levels and cancer incidence?
Conclusion
High serum ceruloplasmin levels are associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly lung cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- 766 cancer cases were identified during a median follow-up of 8 years.
- The overall incidence of cancer was positively associated with serum ceruloplasmin level.
- The smoking-adjusted relative risk of lung cancer among men was 4.3 in the highest quintile of serum ceruloplasmin.
- The risk was stronger during the first 6 years of follow-up than later.
- High serum ceruloplasmin levels may indicate the presence of occult cancer.
Takeaway
This study found that people with high levels of a protein called ceruloplasmin in their blood are more likely to get cancer, especially lung cancer.
Methodology
A case-control study nested within a longitudinal study with serum samples analyzed for ceruloplasmin levels.
Potential Biases
Possible confounding by unmeasured dietary and lifestyle factors.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential confounding factors related to diet and lifestyle.
Participant Demographics
39,268 men and women aged 15 years or over from Finland.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.8-10.6 for lung cancer in the highest quintile of ceruloplasmin.
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website