Wireless phone use in childhood and adolescence and neuroepithelial brain tumours: Results from the international MOBI-Kids study
Abstract
Overview
The increasing concern about potential health risks associated with wireless device use in young populations has led to significant scientific investigations. Between 2010 and 2015, the MOBI-Kids study explored whether exposure to radiofrequency (RF) and extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields from wireless phones might impact brain tumour risk in people aged 10 to 24.
Participants and Methods
- Geographical Coverage: The study includes participants from 14 countries: Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Spain.
- Participant Demographics: A total of 899 brain tumour cases and 1,910 controls were recruited, with participation rates of 72% and 54%, respectively.
- Age and Gender: The mean age was approximately 16.5 years, with 57% being males.
- Usage Profile: Most participants were long-term users of wireless phones, indicating widespread and early-age adoption.
Findings
The data suggested that the risk of neuroepithelial type brain tumors (mainly gliomas) did not increase with longer use of wireless phones. In fact, odds ratios decreased with the increase in number of calls and cumulative call time, especially in participants aged 15-19.
Conclusion
Despite the comprehensive data collected, the study found no evidence of a causal relationship between wireless phone usage and brain tumours. However, potential biases such as differential recall and prodromal symptoms affecting use prior to diagnosis indicate that a small risk cannot be entirely dismissed.