The Relationship Between Atrazine Exposure and Breast and Ovarian Cancer Incidence Rates in Texas Agricultural Statistical Districts

Hull, Kimberly M., The Relationship Between Atrazine Exposure and Breast and Ovarian Cancer Incidence Rates in Texas Agricultural Statistical Districts. Masters of Public Health (Environmental Health), May 2006, 95pp., 16 tables, 7 illustrations, reference, 74 titles. The herbicide, atrazine, is suspected to cause cancer primarily through drinking water. This ecological study analyzed relationships between potential atrazine exposures and female breast and ovarian cancer incidence rates in Texas Agricultural Statistical Districts. Atrazine exposures are: atrazine usage, rural population, and public water systems. Study results indicate an inverse relationship between four atrazine exposures and breast and ovarian cancer incidence rates (county level). There is a positive relationship between surface water systems and ovarian cancer incidences rates (county level). There also is an inverse relationship between one atrazine usage index and ovarian cancer incidence rates (district level). Study results are similar to other atrazine and cancer studies; correlations prevent statements of causal inference.