Commercial outdoor plant nurseries as a confounder for electromagnetic fields and childhood leukemia risk

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the role of commercial outdoor plant nurseries as a potential confounder in the relationship between proximity to high-voltage powerlines, exposure to magnetic fields, and the risk of childhood leukemia.

Background

• There is a reported association between living near powerlines, exposure to high magnetic fields, and increased risk of childhood leukemia.
• Commercial plant nurseries often located under these powerlines might use pesticides, which is another potential risk factor for childhood leukemia.

Objectives

The study aims to determine if pesticide exposure from nurseries contributes to or interacts with magnetic field exposure from powerlines to increase childhood leukemia risk.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted with 5788 cases of childhood leukemia and an equal number of controls, all born and diagnosed in California between 1986 and 2008. The study used geographic information systems, aerial imagery, and site visits for exposure assessment.

Findings

• The odds of leukemia slightly decreased when adjusting for nursery proximity.
• The connection between high-voltage powerlines and leukemia was similarly analyzed, showing consistent risk patterns regardless of nursery location.
• Odds Ratios remained significant even when excluding subjects with high magnetic field exposure or close powerline proximity.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that living near nurseries independently elevates childhood leukemia risk. The study does not support nurseries as a mitigating factor for observed leukemia risks associated with powerline proximity and magnetic fields, highlighting an urgent need for further investigation into these environmental risk factors.