This project aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of risk profiles and longitudinal changes in risk factors for colorectal cancer (CRC) and lung cancer using the UK Biobank data. The study will address critical knowledge gaps by comparing demographic, lifestyle, genetic, and comorbidity risk factors between these two cancers while also assessing how these factors change over time and influence cancer outcomes.
Objectives:
Comparative Analysis of Risk Profiles: We will compare risk factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, diet, physical activity, comorbidities (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease), and genetic predispositions (e.g., polygenic risk scores) between participants diagnosed with CRC and lung cancer. The study will also explore subgroup differences (e.g., by age, sex, ethnicity) to identify unique and shared risk factors across these cancers.
Longitudinal Analysis of Risk Factor Changes: Using longitudinal data, we will examine how changes in risk factors (e.g., smoking cessation, weight changes, onset or resolution of comorbidities) over time impact cancer outcomes such as survival and recurrence for CRC and lung cancer. This analysis will help identify critical periods where interventions may have the greatest impact.
Methods:
The study will use multivariable logistic regression to identify independent risk factors for each cancer type and Cox proportional hazards models to assess the effect of risk factor changes over time on cancer outcomes. Subgroup analyses will be conducted to explore variations in risk profiles and outcomes based on demographic and genetic factors.
Expected Impact:
The findings will enhance understanding of the differential risk factors and disease mechanisms between CRC and lung cancer, improve cancer risk prediction models, and inform targeted prevention strategies, ultimately contributing to reduced cancer burden and better personalized treatment approaches.