This study researched the feasibility of performing DNA ploidy analysis on formalin-fixed tissue from patients who participated in a statewide, population-based, case-control study, and who had tumorous tissue removed at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Eligible cancer sites included the kidney, colon, and rectum. A data collection form was developed and ploidy analysis was run. These analysis were correlated with known pathologic predictors of outcome, as well as with known risk factors for colorectal carcinoma. Results showed no strong associations between ploidy status and survival predictors nor with any dietary and other potential risk factors.