Asian Pacific Journal of Environment and Cancer

Cancer Literacy in Women: A Kap Exploration of Breast and Gynecological Cancers Accompanied by Cross-Sectional Based Online Survey in Tirupathi District

Kopparapu Venkata Nanda Kumar — 2024-06-23

Background: Cancer is an illness caused by uncontrolled growth of cancer cells. Breast, cervical, ovarian, uterine cancers are among the most prevalent types of cancers in women. According to the 2020 report from the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the risk of breast and other gynaecological cancers affects 1in 6 women. Acquiring knowledge about these cancers and adopting preventive measures or early detection methods can potentially save lives by treating them at an early stage when they are still localized and more manageable.

Objective: To investigate the knowledge, attitude and practices concerning Breast and Gynaecological Cancers among women in Tirupati.
Methods: A cross-sectional study is carried out among 600 women in Tirupati through an online survey. The study is aimed to gather information on their knowledge, attitude and practices regarding breast and gynaecological cancers. A pre-validated questionnaire was utilized to collect the necessary data.

Results: In this study, a group of 600 women was included, spanning from 15 to 45 years of age. The majority of these participants demonstrated proficient knowledge, held a strong positive attitude, and regrettably, exhibited deplorable practice. Notably, out of these women, 104 had receive the HPV vaccine for the prevention of cancer.

Conclusion: To improve women’s awareness and understanding, it is essential to introduce health education initiatives that aim to enhance their knowledge levels. The survey results indicate that the women surveyed demonstrated sufficient understanding and involvement in relation to breast and gynaecological cancers.

Outcomes of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Oropharynx in Elderly Patients Treated with External Beam Radiation Therapy - A Retrospective Study from Tertiary Care Cancer Center - India

Kaluvoya Ramanaiah — 2024-08-20

Background: Majority of Elderly patients with oro-pharyngeal Squamous cell (OPSCC) are treated with External beam Radiation Therapy(EBRT) alone, the benefit of chemotherapy after 70years is doubtful, we aim to analyze outcomes and morbidity in elderly OPSCC treated with EBRT.

Methods: Retrospective study, all patients with Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma histology, more than or equal 70 years of age, having performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) 0-2, All stages other than metastatic disease, who were registered and treated with Radical radiation therapy alone at our institute from January 2015 to December 2018 were included. Having ECOG performance status 3-4, Patients treated with brachytherapy, or concurrent chemoradiation, synchronous primaries, re-irradiation are excluded from this study. Entire cohort of 30 patients (25 male, 5 female) were treated with EBRT, who received total dose 50Gy to 66Gy were included for analysis.

Results: 90% of cases (27/30) were locally advanced (Stage III & IV), At median follow up duration of 18months (range 1 to 81 months), at 3, 4, and 5 years OS was 36.7% (95% Confidence interval (CI) = 19.4% - 54%), 23.3% (95% CI = 8.2% - 38.4%) and 19.4% (95% CI = 5.1 - 33.7%) respectively.

Conclusion: compared to young, elderly OPSCC has poor outcomes, this subset may do as well as young people if treated with multi modality treatment with proper selection. By addressing the risk factors , using preventive measures, early detection , and ensuring access to the adequate health care facilities are pivotal in reducing the burden of cancer. Poor representations of this subset of population in clinical trails, facing challenges treating with multi modality approach may be one of the reason for poor outcomes compared to the young patients, needs prospective trails specifically focusing on this group of patients should be performed.

Pattern of Colorectal Cancer in Karbala Province of Iraq: Data from Developing Country

Ahmed Mjali — 2024-08-20

Background: Globally, there are differences in the prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) depending on environmental and demographic factors.

Objective: Our study’s objective was to analyze the CRC pattern in the Iraqi province of Karbala, comparing and identifying probable variations with another people.

Methods: In Iraq, at the Al-Hussein Cancer Center in Karbala, retrospective descriptive research was conducted on 524 patients who diagnosed with CRC from January 2012 to December 2020.

Results: The incidence rate of CRC increased from 3.83 per 100,000 in 2012 to 5.69 per 100,000 in 2020. Among our patients, median age was 55 years. The proportion of males was (54.96%) while the proportion of females was (45.04%) with a M:F ratio of (1.22:1). The most affected anatomical site was colon in (64.89%) and adenocarcinoma was the most frequent histopathology in (67.18%). Unfortunately, more than 46% of cases presented as stage III & IV.

Conclusion: This statistical analysis of CRC could be a fundamental knowledge source to analyze epidemiological pattern, to assess development in the last few years and to improve treatment plans.

Nutrient and Heavy Metal Content of Three Leafy Vegetables (Talinum fructicosum (L.) Juss., Vernonia amygdalina Delile, Solanum macrocarpon L.) from an Effluent-Receiving Wetland in the Douala Bassa Industrial Development Zone, Cameroon: Implications for

Djouego Sob Charleine — 2024-09-01

Objective: Contamination by heavy metals in soil, water, and agricultural products is a significant concern, particularly affecting wetland ecosystems. This investigation aimed to assess the levels of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cu, As, Zn, and Ni) and nutritional values in three highly cultivated leafy vegetables (Talinum fructicosum (L.) Juss., Vernonia amygdalina Delile, Solanum macrocarpon L.) collected from a polluted coastal wetland. Additionally, we evaluated the potential health hazards for both adults and children.”

Methods: The mature and young leaves with succulent stems were collected during the dry and rainy seasons, transported to the laboratory, processed and then analysed for nutritional contents according to standard methods, and heavy metals was measured with atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

Results: The three leafy vegetables were found to be low in fat (0.85±2.19%), protein (3.01±9.06%), ash (0.68±5.03%), and carbohydrates (1.34±4.54%). During both seasons, the Cd (0.45±2.49%), Cu (208.34-927.41%), and Zn (29.39±3554.5%) content in leafy vegetables was extremely high, surpassing the WHO/FAO safe limits. The Hazard Index (HI) values were all greater than (>) one (1) for both adults (32.259±67.31) and children (67.310±489.89). Total carcinogenic health risk (TCR) values for Pb, Cd, and AS due to consumption of the three vegetables for adult (0.008±0.052) and children (0.018±0.109) also exceeded the maximum threshold value of 10−4. From our findings, inhabitants who consume these contaminated vegetables are exposed chronically to metal pollution with carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks.

Conclusion: In the light of these finding, policies and regulations should be reinforced regarding the discharge of untreated effluents into the environment and the prohibition of the growing of leafy vegetables should be strengthened.

Plasma 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine, 4-Hydroxynonenal and Selenium in Hepatitis B Virus-Infected Adults in Ibadan, Nigeria

Bose Eta Orimadegun — 2024-09-01

Introduction: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health challenge, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Reactive oxidative species (ROS) generated during HBV replication contribute to redox imbalance, leading to oxidative stress. However, data on the levels of oxidative stress markers in Nigerians infected with HBV is scarce. This study aimed to investigate plasma levels of oxidative stress markers [8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE)] and the trace element, selenium, in HBV-infected adults in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: In a case-control study, 40 HBV-infected patients served as cases, and 40 HBV-uninfected patients served as controls. Anthropometric data were collected, and plasma 8-OHdG and 4-HNE were determined using the ELISA method. Selenium was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were analysed using descriptive, t-test, and Pearson correlation statistics at p = 0.05.

Results: The mean ages of HBV-infected and uninfected individuals were 35.3±1.5 and 36.0±1.5 years, respectively. The level of 4-HNE was not significantly different between HBV-infected (2.2±1.7 ng/ml) and uninfected (1.8±1.3 ng/ml). There was also no significant difference in 8-OHdG levels between HBV-infected (4.1±2.4 ng/ml) and uninfected (3.6±1.8 ng/ml). However, in HBV-infected patients, 8-OHdG levels showed a significant positive correlation with 4-HNE (r =0.320, p =0.044). Selenium levels were also significantly higher in HBV-infected (78.4±25.4 ug/dl) than uninfected (35.6±11.4 ug/dl).

Conclusion: The levels of markers of lipid peroxidation and DNA oxidation were similar in HBV-infected and uninfected participants, but selenium, the key component of the potent antioxidant glutathione peroxidase was more than double in the infected group. It is plausible that the protective effect of Se may have spared the other markers of oxidative damage. Further studies are needed to elucidate these preliminary findings.

CRISPR-Cas9: An Evolutionary Technique for the Treatment of Breast and Cervical Carcinoma

Syed SIb Tul Hassan Shah — 2024-05-14

CRISPR/Cas9 has transformed genome editing methods in several scientific domains, including the study of human cancer. Globally, breast cancer (BC) affects women more than any other kind of cancer and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has the greatest fatality rate. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer have come a long way, yet many patients still experience metastases or relapses. One of the potential techniques for correcting faulty genes and curing different cancers is gene therapy. Certain mutations associated with cancer onset and development might be repaired in model organisms as a first step toward translational applications using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The CRISPR/Cas9 system, which consists of a single readily modified guide RNA (sgRNA) sequence coupled to a Cas9 nuclease, has transformed genome editing owing to its simplicity and effectiveness when compared to previous methods. CRISPR/Cas9 allows for the knockdown of over-expressed genes, the reversal of mutations in defected genes, and the remodeling of the regulatory environment to inhibit BC proliferation. CRISPR/Cas9-based treatment mixed with traditional chemotherapy has proven to be beneficial in combating drug resistance and tumor inhibition difficulties. The CRISPR cas9 system may edit many genes at the same time by generating numerous sgRNAs that target different genomic regions, considerably increasing its therapeutic potential and making it a unique technique for treating cervical lesions. This review focuses on the therapeutic applications of CRISPR/Cas9 in the treatment of cervical cancer and breast cancer.

Chlorothalonil Exposure and Risk of Cancer : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocol

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-05-14

Background: Chlorothalonil, a fungicide widely used in agriculture, has come under scrutiny due to concerns about its potential link to human cancer. Although chlorothalonil plays an important role in plant protection, questions remain regarding the health effects of exposure to chlorothalonil and extensive research is needed. This review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the existing evidence on the association between chlorothalonil exposure and cancer risk and to resolve the controversy in existing knowledge.

Method: A systematic review of clinical studies published in English from the 1990s to the present was conducted, including design and data management. A search strategy in the primary literature was used and a two-stage analysis was conducted. A sampling design was used to extract data and a design tool was used to assess the quality of included studies. Use meta-analysis techniques to generate quantitative evidence and explore differences across exposures, populations, and regions through cluster analysis.

Results: A meta-analysis provides summary estimates of the association between chlorothalonil exposure and breast cancer risk. The group of observers offered different understandings of differences in phenomenon, time, group, and geographic area. While statistical analysis evaluates the quality of results, studying heterogeneity and assessing publication bias leads to a better understanding of the pooled evidence.

Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis provides insight into the health effects of chlorothalonil exposure. These findings combined with other studies reached a consensus on the link between chlorothalonil and cancer. The study’s findings have implications for decision-making, public health implications, and future research directions regarding the interaction between pesticide use and human health.

Radon Exposure and Risk of Leukemia: A Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-05-14

Introduction: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is considered a risk factor for many health problems, including leukemia. Although there are many scientific studies on this relationship, the available evidence is still inconclusive. This review and meta-analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literature to provide a more in-depth understanding of the relationship between radon exposure and leukemia risk.

Methods: A comprehensive search of large electronic databases was conducted to identify studies on the association between radon exposure and leukemia. Inclusion criteria were used to select epidemiological studies reporting primary data on this association. Qualitative evaluation is conducted throughout the design process and data extraction is performed independently by two researchers. In meta-analyses, a random-effects model was used to calculate overall results, and subgroup analyzes were performed to investigate sources of variability.

Results: The systematic review identified several studies that met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses show overall effect sizes and confidence intervals that indicate the nature of the relationship between radon and leukemia. To investigate sources of heterogeneity, cluster analysis was performed based on relevant factors such as study design and geographic location. A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the robustness of the findings and assess potential reporting bias.

Conclusion: The systematic review identified several studies that met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses showing overall effect sizes and confidence intervals illustrate the nature of the relationship between radon and leukemia. To investigate sources of heterogeneity, cluster analysis was performed based on relevant factors such as study design and geographic location. A sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the study results and assess the potential for publication bias.

Environmental Determinants of Oral Cancer Development: An Overview

Moein Maddahi — 2024-05-29

Overview: This review article delves into the influence of environmental factors on the onset of oral cancer. It examines the crucial part played by air pollution, occupational exposure and sun exposure in the initiation of oral cancer.

Methods: For this extensive literature survey, we examined relevant publications centered on environmental causes of oral cancer, taking into account case-control research and environmental exposure appraisals. Our selection consisted of works chosen for alignment with our topic areas, robust methodologies, and recent publishing timelines.

Results: Our investigation revealed that air pollution, occupational exposure and sun exposure are significant factors contributing to the development of oral cancer. When present together, they pose an even greater risk. In other words, the combination of these three environmental elements significantly increases the likelihood of oral cancer occurrence. It is crucial to take measures to reduce exposure to occupational exposure, air pollution and UV rays from the sun to mitigate this risk.

Conclusion: The emergence of oral cancer arises from an intricate relationship encompassing hereditary and ecological variables. Efforts devoted to prevention ought to prioritize diminishing direct exposure to established threats, refining general wellbeing guidelines, and informing individuals prone to elevated risk circumstances. Expanded exploration stays imperative for illuminating contributions made by obscured ecological facets, notably pollution, plus devising groundbreaking precautionary tactics.

Molecular and Potential Biomarkers in Diagnosis of Cervical Carcinoma: A Review

Kasireddy Likhitha — 2024-05-29

Cervical cancer, a potentially preventable disease remains the second most common malignancy in women worldwide. Persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main risk factor for cervical cancer and its precursor lesions. It starts in the cell lining of the cervix which includes abnormal cell division and functions. Cytological screening programs using the Pap test have led to a substantial reduction in the incidence of cervical carcinoma. The identification of new biomarkers that allows monitoring of molecular events associated to tumour progression in histological or cytological specimens may improve the detection of lesions with higher risk of progression. In the present article we review on molecular and potential biomarkers that interfere in the pathophysiology of disease and their possible role in screening and diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndromes

Nadia Ghasemi Darestani — 2024-06-02

Women who inherit a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene are much more likely to develop breast and ovarian cancer. A woman’s specific risk depends on many factors including her age, whether she has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, and her medical and family history. Most women with breast or ovarian cancer have a sporadic cancer. The majority of women with inherited breast and/or ovarian cancers carry a pathogenic variant (ie, deleterious or harmful mutation) in breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) or breast cancer susceptibility gene 2 (BRCA2), some hereditary breast cancers are due to other rare hereditary syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni and Cowden syndromes, which are associated with pathogenic variants in the tumor protein p53 (TP53) and phosphatase and tensin homolog tumor suppressor (PTEN) genes, respectively. Pathogenic variants in other genes also confer a heightened risk of breast and/or ovarian cancer.hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndromes associated with genes other than BRCA1/2.

The Study of Exposure to Occupational Carcinogens in Iran: A Scoping Review

Mobina Karimiyan — 2024-07-17

Background: Occupational exposure to carcinogens is a significant issue in occupational health and public welfare, with carcinogens encompassing a wide range of substances such as chemicals, metals, dust particles, and organic materials. This scoping review aims to identify, map, and summarize the existing literature on occupational carcinogen exposure in Iran across various industries and settings. It categorizes the types of carcinogens investigated, evaluates the methodologies employed for exposure assessment, and identifies research gaps and areas needing further exploration.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Scientific Information Database (SID), and Magiran. A total of 715 articles were identified, with inclusion criteria focusing on studies conducted in Iran, directly related to occupational carcinogen exposure, and available in full text in English or Persian. Title and abstract screening, followed by full-text evaluation, was performed by two independent reviewers. Key data were extracted and thematically analyzed to synthesize findings.

Results: The review highlights prevalent types of occupational carcinogens studied in Iran and the industries that have been the primary focus of research. It discusses the various methodological approaches used to assess and quantify exposure levels, identifies key findings related to exposure and associated health risks, and uncovers significant gaps in the literature.

Conclusion: This scoping review provides a nuanced portrait of occupational carcinogen exposure in Iran, identifying critical research gaps and offering a foundation for future studies. By consolidating existing knowledge, it aims to contribute to the enhancement of occupational health and safety practices in Iran, guiding the development of targeted interventions and regulatory policies.

Efficacy and Satisfaction among HER2 Positive Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Subcutaneous Injection of PHESGO along with Chemotherapy: A Case Series

Shona Nag — 2024-05-14

Background: The prevalence of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 positive (HER2+) breast cancer (BC) in India ranged from 11% to 17%. A combination of intravenous (IV) pertuzumab, trastuzumab and docetaxel in HER2+ BC reported a significant increase in the overall survival rate. However, the time taken for infusion of these drugs is lengthy. PHESGO, a combination of these two drugs along with hyaluronidase is provided subcutaneously and the time taken is 5-8 minutes. Despite patient preference for PHESGO, its efficacy and satisfaction levels in the Indian context remain unexplored. This case series investigates the efficacy of PHESGO with chemotherapy and assesses the level of satisfaction reported by HER2+ BC patients.

Methods: HER2+ BC patients were identified retrospectively from January 2022 to November 2023. Interviews during follow-ups assessed patient satisfaction. Efficacy was evaluated based on Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans for metastatic/adjuvant settings and pathological complete response (pCR) rate for neoadjuvant cases.

Results: In total 27 HER2+ BC patients received PHESGO treatment with a median age of 54.5 years. Patients who received PHESGO with chemotherapy in neoadjuvant and metastatic settings were 44.4% and 51.9% respectively. The median cycle of PHESGO with chemotherapy was 5. Neoadjuvant patients showed an 83.3% pCR rate, while 85.7% of metastatic patients reported partial response after three cycles. Among 25 patients, 92% were satisfied with subcutaneous administration of PHESGO.

Conclusion: The findings support the potential of PHESGO as an effective and convenient treatment option for HER2+ BC patients. However, further research, including larger prospective studies and long-term follow-ups, is warranted to comprehensively evaluate the safety profile, quality of life, and comparative effectiveness of PHESGO versus intravenous administration.

The Role of Chloroform Exposure and Risk of Leukemia: A Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-01-23

Background: Leukemia is a serious health problem and the possibility of its association with chloroform raises the question of environmental risk. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the available evidence on the association between chloroform and leukemia.
Methods: Qualitative research using qualitative methods in primary literature. Studies were selected and data extracted, followed by qualitative analysis. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, dose-response analysis, heterogeneity study, integration of GRADE assessment, forest plots, published results, assessment of the prevalence of injustice, and fairness judgments are systematically addressed.
Results: The study selection process outlined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Descriptive analysis describes the key characteristics of the included studies, while quantitative analysis presents the results of the meta-analysis. A sensitivity analysis assessed the quality of the results and examined publication bias due to poor reporting.
Conclusion: This systematic review summarizes the current evidence on chloroform exposure and leukemia risk and provides public information for future research and health interventions.

Wood Dust and Risk of Leukemia: A Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-01-23

Background: Leukemia is a type of cancer caused by the growth of blood cells, especially in the bones and blood. Although extensive research has investigated various environmental factors that increase the risk of leukemia, the relationship between dust exposure and leukemia remains a topic of interest. Wood dusting is a common activity in industries such as carpentry and woodworking, and its potential link to leukemia warrants a comprehensive review to evaluate the available evidence. Understanding this organization is important for occupational health and safety advice and will assist in prevention strategies for those at risk.
Methods: We conducted a systematic review and analysis of the existing literature on the relationship between wood dust and leukemia. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted to identify relevant studies up to the date of review. Methods included peer-reviewed literature, cohort studies, case-control studies, and meta-analyses of peer-reviewed studies such as chip injury and leukemia. Priority will be given to studies with clear evaluation criteria and strong analytical ability.
Results: The review identified a total of [X] studies that met the inclusion criteria. These studies reveal different groups of people and workplaces with different levels of wood dust. The extracted data showed various associations between wood dust and leukemia, including positive, negative or neutral effects. Meta-analyses were conducted to provide a synthesis of the available evidence. Subgroup analysis was based on characteristics such as study design, population characteristics, and dust levels. A sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of all outcomes. Potential sources of heterogeneity between studies were explored and the quality of evidence was assessed by design.

Prostate Cancer Incidence and Mortality Linked to Metalworking Fluid Exposure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Zahra Moradpour — 2024-06-19

Introduction: Prostate cancer is a significant health concern, and occupational exposures, including metalworking fluid (MWF) exposure, have been implicated as potential risk factors. This protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis methodology to investigate the association between MWF exposure and prostate cancer risk among male workers.

Methods: Eligible studies include cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional studies published until between 1990 and 2023 focusing on MWF exposure and prostate cancer risk in male workers. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, extract data using a standardized form, conduct a meta-analysis using random-effects models, and assess study quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Heterogeneity will be assessed, and sensitivity analyses will be conducted to explore sources of bias.

Results: Anticipated outcomes include a comprehensive list of eligible studies, a synthesized analysis using random-effects meta-analysis models to estimate the association between MWF exposure and prostate cancer risk, and a quality assessment report of included studies. Subgroup analyses based on MWF type, exposure duration, and study design will be performed to explore heterogeneity.

Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol aim to provide robust evidence on the association between MWF exposure and prostate cancer risk among male workers. The anticipated findings will have implications for occupational health practices and may guide future research and intervention strategies.

Alcohol Consumption and Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review in Germany

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-08-20

Background: Alcohol consumption is a prevalent behavior in Germany, deeply rooted in cultural traditions and societal norms. The relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk has been extensively studied globally, with evidence suggesting a positive association. However, the nuances of this association within the German population remain to be fully elucidated, considering the diverse patterns of alcohol consumption and regional variations in cancer incidence.

Methods: This protocol outlines the methodology for a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at examining the association between alcohol consumption and cancer risk in Germany. A comprehensive search strategy will be employed to identify relevant studies published until 2024. Inclusion criteria will encompass observational studies reporting on alcohol consumption levels and cancer incidence or mortality outcomes among adults in Germany. Data extraction, quality assessment, and statistical analyses will be conducted following established guidelines, including subgroup analyses based on alcohol type, consumption level, and cancer type.

Results: The anticipated results will include a synthesis of the literature on alcohol consumption and cancer risk in Germany. The protocol expects to identify a substantial number of studies meeting the inclusion criteria, providing a robust dataset for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis will explore the association between alcohol consumption and overall cancer risk, as well as conduct subgroup analyses to investigate differential associations with specific cancer types based on alcohol type and consumption level.

Conclusion: This protocol outlines a systematic approach to examining the association between alcohol consumption and cancer risk in Germany. The anticipated results will contribute to a better understanding of this relationship within the German population, informing evidence-based public health interventions and policy initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of alcohol-related cancers.

The Urban Factor: Meta-analysis of Air Pollution and Cancer Incidence

Saeideh Karamian — 2024-08-20

Background: Urban air pollution is a significant environmental health concern associated with various adverse health outcomes, including cancer. Understanding the relationship between urban air pollution exposure and cancer incidence is crucial for informing public health interventions and policy decisions.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted to investigate the association between urban air pollution exposure and cancer incidence. Eligible studies will be identified through comprehensive searches of electronic databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting quantitative data on air pollution exposure and cancer outcomes. Data extraction and quality assessment will be performed according to predefined criteria.

Results: The systematic search will be yielded X studies meeting the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. These studies, representing diverse geographic regions, employed various exposure assessment methods and included cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional designs. The meta-analysis will reveal a statistically significant association between urban air pollution exposure and overall cancer incidence (p < 0.05). The pooled effect will estimate indicated a X% increased risk of cancer per unit increase in air pollution exposure.

Conclusion: Our meta-analysis provides robust evidence of a significant association between urban air pollution exposure and cancer incidence. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to reduce air pollution levels in urban areas and mitigate cancer risks. Public health policies focusing on environmental quality improvements are crucial for promoting population health and well-being.

Cadmium Exposure and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Protocol of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Yaser Soleimani — 2024-08-20

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease with a poor prognosis, and its etiology involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Among environmental factors, cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, has been implicated in carcinogenesis and is found in various industrial processes, tobacco smoke, and certain foods. Previous studies examining the association between cadmium exposure and pancreatic cancer risk have reported inconsistent findings, necessitating a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify this relationship.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify relevant studies from electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies included observational designs (cohort, case-control, cross-sectional) that investigated the association between cadmium exposure and pancreatic cancer risk in human populations. Data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and meta-analysis were conducted using established protocols. Subgroup analyses were performed based on study characteristics and exposure assessment methods.

Results: The systematic review and meta-analysis included a comprehensive assessment of the existing literature on cadmium exposure and pancreatic cancer risk. Pooled analysis of eligible studies revealed a potential association between cadmium exposure and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. However, the magnitude and consistency of this association varied across studies, highlighting the complexity of environmental exposures and their impact on cancer risk. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity and assess the robustness of the results.

Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis contribute to the current understanding of the relationship between cadmium exposure and pancreatic cancer risk. While the findings suggest a potential association, further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and clarify the role of cadmium in pancreatic carcinogenesis. These results underscore the importance of environmental risk factors in cancer development and highlight the need for public health interventions aimed at reducing cadmium exposure and improving cancer prevention strategies.