Evaluation of the relationship between nitrate use and the prevalence of colorectal cancers in the United States
Egbuchiem, Alex N Okobi, Okelue E Odutola, Oluwadamilola D Oghotuoma, Oghenemaro
Egbuchiem, Alex N
Okobi, Okelue E
Odutola, Oluwadamilola D
Oghotuoma, Oghenemaro
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Affiliation
Nebraska Medical Center; IMG Research Academy and Consulting LLC; Larkin Community Hospital; Lakeside Medical Center; Medical University of South Carolina; St. John's Episcopal Hospital; Kingston Public Hospital; American International School of Medicine; BronxCare Health System; Olabisi Onabanjo University; Spartan Health Sciences University; Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust; Windsor University School of Medicine; St. John Episcopal Hospital
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Publication date
2025-05-21
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Abstract
Background Exposure to nitrate through contaminated drinking water has been suggested as a potential risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC). However, ecological evidence across the U.S. states remains limited. This study aims to examine the association between average nitrate concentrations and CRC incidence across 31 U.S. states. Methods An ecological analysis was conducted using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) Environmental Public Health Tracking Network and United States Cancer Statistics (2017-2021). Simple linear regression and Pearson correlation analyses were performed, stratified by gender. Results No significant associations were observed between nitrate concentrations and CRC incidence in both strata. Correlations were weak and non-significant. Conclusions In our study, state-level nitrate exposure was not significantly linked to CRC incidence. Further individual-level studies are recommended.
Citation
Egbuchiem AN, Okobi OE, Odutola OD, Igbenabor CA, Okey-Ndeche UN, Omotunde O, Ayantoyinbo T, Abonyi OC, Oghotuoma OO, Nnabude OH, Nwume CG. Evaluation of the Relationship Between Nitrate Use and the Prevalence of Colorectal Cancers in the United States. Cureus. 2025 May 21;17(5):e84530. doi: 10.7759/cureus.84530. PMID: 40546631; PMCID: PMC12179813.
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Article