Population Change and Childhood Leukaemia
Author Information
Author(s): Stiller C A, Kroll M E, Boyle P J, Feng Z
Primary Institution: Childhood Cancer Research Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford
Hypothesis
Is the incidence of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) related to population change since the previous census?
Conclusion
The study found no evidence that the risk of childhood ALL is related to population ratio in the age groups 0 and 5–14 years.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 40% of wards experienced a population decrease between 1981 and 1991.
- 60% of wards experienced an increase in population.
- There was a highly significant positive trend linking population ratios and diversity of origins of all-ages immigrants.
- Incidence rates for ALL were higher in rural wards compared to urban or mixed wards.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether changes in population affected childhood leukaemia rates, but it didn't find a clear link.
Methodology
The study analyzed census data and incidence rates of ALL by age group and population change categories.
Limitations
The population estimation method had potential shortcomings, and results may not fully address the relationship due to ignored changes after 1991.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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