Examining the Associations of Breast Cancer Outcomes and Air Pollution in Chicago
Session Number
MEDH 38
Advisor(s)
Beverly Chukwudozie, University of Illinois Chicago, Cancer Center
Discipline
Medical and Health Sciences
Start Date
17-4-2024 11:05 AM
End Date
17-4-2024 11:20 AM
Abstract
Breast cancer is a significant public health concern, with varying incidence and mortality rates among different demographic groups. Recent studies suggest a potential association between air pollution and breast cancer rates, prompting our investigation within specific Chicago areas from 2015 to 2021. Analyzing data from Metopio, across 77 community areas, we focused on PM2.5 as the primary air pollution variable. We considered environmental factors, socioeconomic status, and demographics. Descriptive stats revealed annual PM2.5 fluctuations, with decreased mean values over time. Correlation analyses showed negative correlations between incidence rates and environmental factors, poverty, but positive correlations with mortality rates. Linear regression revealed a positive association between PM2.5 and both incidence and mortality rates, with adjustments for other variables. Adding environmental factors improved models, yet race/ethnicity variables had the most significant impact. Our findings enhance understanding of air pollution and breast cancer rates in Chicago communities, advocating for public health strategies targeting socioeconomic and racial disparities to improve outcomes. Further studies can delve into the mechanisms underlying these relationships.
Examining the Associations of Breast Cancer Outcomes and Air Pollution in Chicago
Breast cancer is a significant public health concern, with varying incidence and mortality rates among different demographic groups. Recent studies suggest a potential association between air pollution and breast cancer rates, prompting our investigation within specific Chicago areas from 2015 to 2021. Analyzing data from Metopio, across 77 community areas, we focused on PM2.5 as the primary air pollution variable. We considered environmental factors, socioeconomic status, and demographics. Descriptive stats revealed annual PM2.5 fluctuations, with decreased mean values over time. Correlation analyses showed negative correlations between incidence rates and environmental factors, poverty, but positive correlations with mortality rates. Linear regression revealed a positive association between PM2.5 and both incidence and mortality rates, with adjustments for other variables. Adding environmental factors improved models, yet race/ethnicity variables had the most significant impact. Our findings enhance understanding of air pollution and breast cancer rates in Chicago communities, advocating for public health strategies targeting socioeconomic and racial disparities to improve outcomes. Further studies can delve into the mechanisms underlying these relationships.