Serum Cholesterol and Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): N.J. Wald, S.G. Thompson, M.R. Law, J.W. Densem, A. Bailey
Primary Institution: BUPA Epidemiological Research Group, St Bartholomew's Hospital Medical College
Hypothesis
Is low serum cholesterol a precursor of cancer or a consequence of it?
Conclusion
The study suggests that low serum cholesterol is a metabolic consequence of cancer rather than a cause.
Supporting Evidence
- Men diagnosed with cancer less than 2 years after blood collection had lower cholesterol levels.
- Cholesterol levels were similar for men diagnosed with cancer 2 or more years after blood collection.
- The study included 22,000 men, making it a large prospective study.
Takeaway
The study looked at men and found that low cholesterol levels might happen after cancer starts, not before.
Methodology
A prospective study of men aged 35-64 who attended a medical screening center, with matched controls based on age, smoking history, and other factors.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors or biases in other studies may affect the association between cholesterol and cancer.
Limitations
The study could not analyze many cancer sites separately due to insufficient numbers.
Participant Demographics
Men aged 35-64 years attending a medical screening center.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p=0.02
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website