B. D. Hughes1, S. Maharsi1, H. Mehta1, S. Klimberg1, D. S. Tyler1, I. C. Okereke2 1University Of Texas Medical Branch,Department Of Surgery,Galveston, TX, USA 2University Of Texas Medical Branch,Division Of Cardiothoracic Surgery,Galveston, TX, USA
Introduction:
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death with a geographic variability in its incidence. Poor air quality has previously been associated with lung cancer development, but the risk associated with regional differences in air quality are poorly understood. We hypothesized that there would be difference in the incidence of lung cancer by county in Texas associated with air quality indicators in that county.
Methods:
For each county in Texas (n = 254), lung cancer incidence, air quality indicators (average particulate matter greater than 2.5 micrometers [PM2.5], radon levels), and known risk factors were obtained using data from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Texas Cancer Registry. Linear regression models were constructed to determine the association of air quality indicators with lung cancer incidence and advanced stage at diagnosis (stage III or IV), while controlling for county-level sociodemographic characteristics and smoking rates.
Results:
Lung cancer incidence ranged from 27.6 to 103.4 cases per 100,000 people (Figure 1). After controlling for risk factors, PM2.5 was associated with increased lung cancer incidence (β = 4.38, p < 0.0001), and radon levels were not significantly associates with lung cancer incidence (β = -2.70, p=0.41). Air quality indicators (PM2.5 and radon level) were not significantly associated with advanced cancer diagnosis.
Conclusion:
There are wide differences in incidence of lung cancer across Texas. These differences appear to be related to air quality. Identifying high-risk areas may help to guide strategies such as implementation of targeted lung cancer screening programs.
