Geographical variations in the incidence of colorectal cancer in Britain
1984

Colorectal Cancer Incidence in Nine British Towns

Sample size: 721 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): D.J.P. Barker, K.M. Godfrey

Primary Institution: MRC Environmental Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK

Hypothesis

The dominant aetiological influences causing colorectal cancer differ in men and women.

Conclusion

The incidence of colorectal cancer varies significantly between men and women based on socio-economic conditions.

Supporting Evidence

  • Men in towns with better socio-economic conditions had higher incidences of colorectal cancer.
  • Women in towns with worse socio-economic conditions had higher incidences of colorectal cancer.
  • Mortality rates did not correlate closely with incidence rates.

Takeaway

This study looked at how often colorectal cancer happens in different towns in Britain and found that men in richer towns get it more, while women in poorer towns get it more.

Methodology

Incidence data were collected from pathology records in nine towns, focusing on cases diagnosed between 1979 and 1980.

Potential Biases

Possible underascertainment of cases due to reliance on pathology records and the exclusion of older patients.

Limitations

The study may have missed cases of colorectal cancer in patients aged 75 and older due to the exclusion criteria.

Participant Demographics

394 males and 327 females aged less than 75 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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