Population-based multicase-control study in common tumors in Spain (MCC-Spain): rationale and study design

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Genetics
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Cancer remains a significant public health concern globally and in Spain.
• Understanding the interplay of environmental and genetic factors is crucial for effective cancer prevention and control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the environmental and genetic risk factors associated with five common cancers in Spain.
• To establish a large population-based case-control study (MCC-Spain) for comprehensive etiological research.
• To identify potential pleiotropic effects of risk factors across different cancer types.

Main Methods:

• A population-based case-control study involving 10,106 participants (cases and controls) aged 20-85 across 12 Spanish provinces.
• Data collection included face-to-face interviews, food-frequency questionnaires, and collection of biological samples (blood, saliva).
• Genotyping was performed using an exome array, and clinical information/tumor samples were collected for cases.

Main Results:

• The study enrolled a substantial number of cases for prostate, breast, colorectal, gastro-oesophageal cancers, and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, along with population controls.
• Participation rates varied across cancer types and control groups.
• Comprehensive data on sociodemographic factors, exposures, lifestyle, and genetic markers were collected for future analysis.

Conclusions:

• The MCC-Spain study provides a robust platform for evaluating etiological factors of common cancers.
• This initiative is expected to significantly advance cancer research and prevention efforts within Spain.
• The study's findings will contribute to a better understanding of cancer development and inform public health strategies.