An analysis of experimental radiation carcinogenesis with model setting for competing risks

The mean life span of animals killed by a specific type of tumor and the incidence of that particular tumor are influenced by competing risks. A parametric approach for censored samples was applied to correct for the competing risks. The life span distribution under each risk wherein the other risks were thought to be eliminated is assumed to be a Weibull distribution. Our data were from an experiment on tumor induction by X-rays in mice: whole body irradiation with 600 R; head with 800 R; trunk with 800 R; or lower body with 800 R. Analysis of the results shows that the mean appearance time of malignant lymphomas was accelerated by whole body irradiation. Acceleration of lung tumors was relatively large after trunk irradiation. Mammary tumors were accelerated by whole body, trunk or lower body irradiation.