Cancer surveillance of Veterans in Massachusetts, USA, 1982-1988

This surveillance study is a follow-up to previous findings of elevated soft tissue sarcoma mortality in Massachusetts Vietnam veterans compared to other veterans. The roster of veterans was compiled from Massachusetts residents who received a state bonus for military service in the period 1958-1973. This computerized list was linked to the central files of the Massachusetts Cancer Registry and cases diagnosed between 1982 and 1988 were identified. Odds ratios (ORs) for several cancer sites were computed; only that for soft tissue sarcoma incidence was significantly elevated in Vietnam veterans compared to other veterans (OR = 3.08; 95% confidence interval: (CI) 1.07-8.73). Kaposi's sarcoma cases who were also AIDS patients were excluded from the analysis. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was also investigated but was not significantly elevated in these surveillance data. Sources of bias are discussed and recommendations for continued surveillance and follow-up studies are made.