Breast Cancer Risk in Upper Cape Cod: A Spatial-Temporal Analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Verónica M Vieira, Thomas F Webster, Janice M Weinberg, Ann Aschengrau
Primary Institution: Boston University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
What is the association between residential history and breast cancer risk in upper Cape Cod?
Conclusion
The study found a significant association between breast cancer risk and living near the Massachusetts Military Reservation from 1947 to 1956.
Supporting Evidence
- Statistically significant increased areas of breast cancer risk were found in the northern part of upper Cape Cod.
- Earlier calendar years were associated with higher breast cancer risk.
- Risk of breast cancer increased with longer residency duration.
Takeaway
The study looked at where people lived and how long they lived there to see if it affected their chances of getting breast cancer. They found that living near a military area might increase those chances.
Methodology
The study used generalized additive models (GAMs) and geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze residential histories and breast cancer risk over time.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from uneven population shifts across the geographic study area.
Limitations
The analyses are exploratory and there are methodological issues that warrant further research.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 660 breast cancer cases and 971 controls with continuous residential histories.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Confidence Interval
0.90–1.40
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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