Wireless phone use in childhood and adolescence and neuroepithelial brain tumours: Results from the international MOBI-Kids study
Abstract
Overview
The MOBI-Kids study, conducted across 14 countries, investigated the impact of wireless phone use during childhood and adolescence on brain tumour risk, particularly focusing on neuroepithelial brain tumours (NBT).
Findings
- The study covered a sample of 899 individuals with brain tumours and 1,910 controls, focusing on the age group 10 to 24 years.
- Analysis showed a majority of participants had used wireless phones, with 22% being long-term users. Importantly, 51% of those aged 20–24 had used phones for over 10 years.
- Despite extensive data, the study found no definitive evidence linking mobile phone use to increased brain tumour risk. However, it revealed a potential for small increased risks due to differential recall and other biases.
Conclusion
While the study results do not conclusively prove a causal link between wireless phone use and brain tumours in young people, potential biases suggest the need for caution. Further research is advocated to explore this critical area more comprehensively.