Nonmalignant meningioma and vestibular schwannoma incidence trends in the United States, 2004-2017

Authors: Diana R Withrow, Susan S Devesa, Dennis Deapen, Valentina Petkov, Alison L Van Dyke, Margaret Adamo, Terri S Armstrong, Mark R Gilbert, Martha S Linet

Year: 2021 Jun 23

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Cancer

DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33553

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34160068/

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the relationship between the growing prevalence of mobile phone use and the incidence rates of nonmalignant meningiomas and vestibular schwannomas in the US.

Methods

  • Examination of the incidence among adults from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 18 registries during 2004-2017.
  • Diagnosis methods included microscopically confirmed (MC) or radiographically confirmed (RGC).
  • Annual percent changes (APCs) and confidence intervals calculated using log-linear models.

Findings

  • Meningioma rates initially increased significantly but showed a slower increase post-2009.
  • Stable rates of vestibular schwannoma suggest no direct association with mobile phone usage.
  • Differential trends by diagnostic method imply careful interpretation is needed.

Conclusion

The study underscores the varied trends by diagnostic methods and suggests caution in directly associating mobile phone usage with nonmalignant meningiomas and vestibular schwannomas. The need for further evaluative studies in registry differences is highlighted to refine these findings.

Concerns about mobile phone usage contributing to these tumors are valid given historical data and recent epidemiological insights, implying potential long-term risks.

meningioma vestibular schwannoma mobile phone use epidemiology cancer trends health risks electromagnetic fields
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