Although the increased risk of NPC associated with the BIRC5 -31CC genotype seemed to be more pronounced in subjects who were males, younger (<45 years), non-smokers, non-drinkers, Han Chinese, and negative for family history, these differences could be attributed to chance (all P≥0.05, test for homogeneity). The gene discussed is BIRC5; the disease is nasopharyngeal carcinoma.