Nitrate contamination in drinking water and colorectal cancer: Exposure assessment and estimated health burden in New Zealand.

Background: Epidemiological evidence in multiple jurisdictions has shown an association between nitrate exposure in drinking water and an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Objective: We aimed to review the extent of nitrate contamination in New Zealand drinking water and estimate the health and financial burden of nitrate-attributable CRC.

Methods: We collated data on nitrate concentrations in drinking water for an estimated 85% of the New Zealand population (∼4 million people) who were on registered supplies.

Issues in the assessment of cardiovascular risk in selected general practices in Canterbury, New Zealand.

Aims: The aim was to audit patient records at selected general practices in Canterbury, New Zealand to assess the potential: (a) to improve identification and management of people with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD); and (b) to develop a geographically distinct community database of CVD risk factor prevalence that could be used to plan public health programmes to improve cardiovascular health.

Methods: Patient records were audited in three general practices in a Canterbury rural town and information on cardiovascular risk factors recommended for the screening and management of CVD by the New Zealand Guidelines Group was extracted and entered into an electronic database. The data was analysed to assess the extent of recording of information on recommended risk factors.