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ENTÉRICOS-Subproductos de la desinfección y otros determinantes ambientales, genéticos y moleculares del cáncer colorectal

Duration
2009-2011
Coordinator
Cristina Villanueva
Funded by
Fondo de Investigación Sanitaria
Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent types of cancer in Spain, and disinfection byproducts (DBPs) represent a ubiquitous environmental exposure by means of drinking water. Although experimental data show biologic plausibility of carcinogenicity, epidemiological studies that assess colorectal cancer associated to this type of exposure have yielded inconsistent results.



Our aim is to conduct a colorectal cancer case-control study in order to assess the increased risk of colorectal cancer due to chronic DBP exposure by means of consumption, inhalation and skin absorption. 1,500 cases and 1,500 controls between the ages of 20 and 85, residents of the study hospitals’ catchment areas, will be included. The cases are patients diagnosed for the first time with histologically confirmed colorectal cancer. The controls are population-based, paired 1:1 with the cases by sex, age ((± 5 years) and ethnic group. Personal information is collected by means of a computer-based interview on the use and consumption of water, tobacco, medication, family history and socio-demographic factors. Information regarding nutrition is obtained via a self-administered eating frequency questionnaire.



We obtain a blood sample to extract DNA, serum and plasma. An environmental study is performed to ascertain current and past DBP levels, by analysing tap water samples and questionnaires completed by water companies. The study population’s chronic exposure due to the several ways in which water is used (consumption, showering, bathing, etc.) will be assessed. The colorectal cancer risk associated to several DBP exposure markers will be estimated, adjusting for potential confounding factors.

 

Our Team

Principal Investigator (PI)

  • Cristina Villanueva
    Cristina Villanueva Associate Research Professor and Head of the Environment and Health over the Lifecourse Programme

Our Team

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