Submited on: 27 Oct 2010 06:32:42 PM GMT
Published on: 27 Oct 2010 09:42:21 PM GMT
 

1 Is the subject of the article within the scope of the subject category? Yes
2 Are the interpretations / conclusions sound and justified by the data? Yes
3 Is this a new and original contribution? Yes
4 Does this paper exemplify an awareness of other research on the topic? Yes
5 Are structure and length satisfactory? Yes
6 Can you suggest brief additions or amendments or an introductory statement that will increase the value of this paper for an international audience? No
7 Can you suggest any reductions in the paper, or deletions of parts? No
8 Is the quality of the diction satisfactory? Yes
9 Are the illustrations and tables necessary and acceptable? Yes
10 Are the references adequate and are they all necessary? Yes
11 Are the keywords and abstract or summary informative? Yes
  • Other Comments:

    The author has given fair consideration to both the strengths and weaknesses of the study design. He has subjected the data to rigorous statistical analysis within the bounds of the design. Ecological studies can be difficult to interpret, since there are factors that cannot be accounted for. The author chose to remain with the most highly represented wthnic group within the counties under consideration. Although this may result in undercounting of some cases and overcounting of others, it provides a stable cohort of the cases that were counted.

    The problem that arises with ecological studies is what to do with the results. The greatest benefit may be to health planners in the region and to epidemiologists who may wish to do further analysis and study. Dr Hart has certainly illuminated a potential set of problems for that region. He has laid the groundwork for those who follow.

  • Competing interests:
    None
  • Invited by the author to review this article? :
    Yes
  • Have you previously published on this or a similar topic?:
    No
  • References:
    None
  • Experience and credentials in the specific area of science:

    MPH in Epidemiology and twenty years of experience in both epidemiology and environmental health at state and federal level. Also teach courses in both areas.

  • How to cite:  Lewis C C.Cancer mortality rates and north-to-south postion along the Mississippi River[Review of the article 'Cancer Mortality Rates And North-to-south County Position Along The Mississippi River: An Ecological Study ' by Hart J].WebmedCentral 2010;1(12):WMCRW00221
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