Bladder Cancer Incidence and Toxic Release Sites in Utah
Author Information
Author(s): Fortunato Léa, Abellan Juan José, Beale Linda, LeFevre Sam, Richardson Sylvia
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Is there an association between bladder cancer incidence and the presence of Toxic Release Inventory sites in Utah?
Conclusion
The study found that areas with high relative risk for bladder cancer were associated with the presence of Toxic Release Inventory sites.
Supporting Evidence
- 93 census tracts were classified as having an excess relative risk for bladder cancer.
- The odds ratio for the presence of TRI sites was 2.73, indicating a positive association with bladder cancer risk.
- The study adjusted for the proportion of Latter-Day Saint Church members as a proxy for smoking habits.
Takeaway
The study looked at bladder cancer rates in Utah and found that living near certain toxic sites might increase the risk of getting bladder cancer.
Methodology
The study used a Bayesian space-time model to analyze bladder cancer incidence data from 496 census tracts over 32 years.
Potential Biases
Possible underreporting of toxic releases and mislocation of TRI sites could bias the results.
Limitations
The study's reliance on TRI data, which may not accurately reflect actual exposure levels, and the potential for misclassification of cases.
Participant Demographics
The study included data from both genders, with a total of 5,882 bladder cancer cases (4,560 males and 1,322 females).
Statistical Information
P-Value
2.73 (OR for presence of TRI sites)
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.05-6.69
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website