Abstract

Overview

Mobile phones are known to emit electromagnetic radiations which are classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans. The scientific debate regarding the increased risk for brain tumours through these emissions persists, influenced by the methodological approach and the source of funding of the studies.

Findings

• A comprehensive database search was conducted, covering publications from 1966 to December 2016, culminating in the inclusion of 22 case control studies in this systematic review.
• A meta-analysis of 14 studies revealed no significant increase in brain tumour risk with mobile phone use in general [Odds Ratio (OR) 1.03; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.92-1.14].
• However, prolonged mobile phone use (≥10 years or >1640 hours) was linked with a significant 1.33 times increase in brain tumour risk.
• Government or phone industry funded studies indicated a slightly increased risk (OR 1.07), though this was statistically insignificant.
• Meta-regression analysis pinpointed a correlation between the methodological quality of a study and the reported outcomes, with higher quality studies indicating a potential trend towards increased risk.

Conclusion

The analysis underscores a significant connection between long-term mobile phone usage and increased risk of developing brain tumours. The influence of study quality and funding source on research outcomes highlights the need for meticulous methodological design in future research in this area.