Residential exposure to magnetic fields from high-voltage power lines and risk of childhood leukemia

Authors: Malagoli C, Malavolti M, Wise LA, Balboni E, Fabbi S, Teggi S, Palazzi G, Cellini M, Poli M, Zanichelli P, Notari B, Cherubini A, Vinceti M, Filippini T

Year: 2023 Jun 2

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Environ Res

DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116320

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37271435/

Abstract

Overview

Residential proximity to high-voltage power lines and its association with the risk of childhood leukemia is assessed in this Italian population-based case-control study.

Background

  • Previous studies have shown inconsistencies regarding the risk of leukemia among children living close to power lines.
  • The current study leverages more rigorous exposure assessments to clarify this potential association.

Methods

This analysis included a total of 182 childhood leukemia cases and 726 matched controls, accounting for various confounders such as proximity to petrol stations and traffic-related pollutants.

Findings

  • Children living within 100 meters of high-voltage power lines had approximately twice the risk of childhood leukemia compared to those living 400 meters away or more.
  • The risk association showed a non-linear pattern, increasingly significant at lesser distances.

Conclusion

The findings indicate a clear, albeit imprecise, increase in childhood leukemia risk in closer proximity to power lines, detailed by a dose-response relationship. This supports hypothesized risks associated with exposure to magnetic fields near residential areas.

childhood leukemia magnetic fields high-voltage power lines epidemiological study health risks environmental exposure case-control study
← Back to Stats