Individuals with colorblindness may face a significantly higher risk of mortality from bladder cancer, according to new research. The study, which analyzed de-identified patient records, found that those diagnosed with bladder cancer and colorblindness had a 52% higher overall mortality risk over 20 years compared to those with normal vision.
Locating an Unusual Subset
Researchers, led by Rahimy, utilized the TriNetX platform – a database containing real-time electronic health records from approximately 275 million patients worldwide – to identify a specific population. The platform allowed them to locate 135 patients with both colorblindness and bladder cancer, and 187 patients with both colorblindness and colorectal cancer. Each group was then matched with a control group of patients with the same cancer diagnosis, but with normal vision.
The findings regarding colorectal cancer differed. Researchers found no statistically significant difference in survival rates between those with and without colorblindness. This difference is likely due to the fact that blood in the stool is not the primary symptom reported by most colorectal cancer patients; abdominal pain and changes in stool habits are more common. Furthermore, colorectal cancer screening is widely recommended for adults aged 45 to 75.
Awareness is Key
The study relied on ICD-10 diagnostic codes entered into electronic health records. Researchers acknowledge that the actual mortality rate among those with colorblindness and bladder cancer may be underestimated, as many individuals with color vision deficiency remain undiagnosed.
Rahimy noted that the study is a “30,000-foot view” and warrants further investigation. He has already heard from medical professionals who had not previously considered colorblindness as a relevant factor in cancer diagnosis, and some are considering adding questions about colorblindness to screening questionnaires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cancers were studied?
The study focused on bladder cancer and colorectal cancer, examining whether colorblindness impacted survival rates for patients diagnosed with either condition.
How was the data collected?
Researchers used the TriNetX platform, which contains de-identified electronic health records from around the world, to identify and analyze patient data.
What did the study find regarding colorectal cancer?
The study found no statistically significant difference in survival rates between people with and without colorblindness who were diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Given these findings, could increased awareness of colorblindness and its potential impact on detecting bladder cancer symptoms lead to earlier diagnoses and improved patient outcomes?