Cross-sectional Epidemiologic Study for Assessing Cancer Risks at the Population Level

Abstract

A cross-sectional study on associations between lifestyle factors and cancer risks was conducted in five areas of Japan. The study design and participation rate were described in the part I. In this paper, we showed the baseline data of lifestyle and health-related items with special reference to geographic difference. Medical history of peptic ulcer, family history of stomach cancer and any cancer, smoking and drinking habits, anthropometric features such as height, weight and body mass index, and biochemical parameters such as HDL cholesterol, uric acid, and abnormal GOT were significantly different among men by study areas. Urinary excretion level of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, and nutritional intake level of energy, fat and carbohydrate also revealed the significant differences. The wives of male participants also showed the similar geographical difference. Correlation analysis was conducted between age-adjusted mortality rates of selected cancer sites and prevalence or average values of lifestyle and health-related factors. Significant associations were found between esophageal cancer and consumption of alcohol and cigarette, and stomach cancer and both medical histories of peptic ulcer and salt excretion in 24-h urine. J Epidemiol, 1992; 2 : 83-89.