Abstract

Abstract

Overview

The association between magnetic field exposure and Motor Neuron Disease (MND) has been a topic of continuous research. Previous meta-analyses have suggested a possible link, yet no definitive causal relationship has been established.

Aims

This study aims to explore the potential risks of MND associated with occupational exposure to magnetic fields in a large cohort from the UK.

Methods

• Examined the mortality rates of 37,986 former employees of the Central Electricity Generating Board of England and Wales from 1987-2018.
• Assessments were based on detailed calculations of exposure to magnetic fields.
• Comparisons of observed deaths with expected numbers, using Poisson regression to calculate rate ratios for different exposure categories.

Findings

The mortality from MND in the cohort was comparable to the national rates, showing no significant increase in risk with lifetime magnetic field exposure. However, some categories of recent exposure showed positive associations, suggesting a need for further investigation.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that there is no significant risk increase for MND from lifetime occupational exposure to magnetic fields in the studied cohort. However, the observed associations with recent exposures highlight an area for potential future research.