Guidelines for the conduct of site-specific cancer incidence studies among A-bomb survivors, Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Summary

This research protocol defines guidelines for conducting a series of patho-epidemiological studies of the incidence of specific cancers as late effects of atomic bomb radiation exposure among the RERF extended Life Span Study population. These guidelines are intended to simplify the preparation of subsequent research plans for site-specific cancer incidence studies and to provide uniformity in the basic design and conduct of studies. The combination of improved tumor and tissue registries and previous experience with other cancer incidence studies at RERF should facilitate the compilation of accurate information about radiation risk and the induction of specific tumors. Modifying factors such as age at the time of the bombing and sex as well as other carcinogenic factors such as smoking and hormone levels, when feasible, will also be considered.

The proposed studies will involve the members of several departments at RERF and pathologists from the university and community hospitals of both Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Other pathologists and clinical investigators with expertise in certain specific cancers also may participate in some of the studies. The proposed studies will be undertaken with the cooperation of the tumor registries of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki City Medical Associations and the tissue registries of the Hiroshima Prefectural Medical Association and the Nagasaki City Medical Association.

For each cancer site, a specific research protocol will be submitted, describing the background and significance of the proposed study and identifying responsible investigators. Benign tumors may also be included for some sites.

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