Abstract

Overview

Background: Brain tumours (BT) are prevalent among young individuals but the clarity on risk factors remains limited.

Objective

The study aims to consolidate existing literature on environmental factors contributing to BT risk in individuals below 25 years.

Methods

• Extensive database search conducted across platforms like PUBMED, Embase, and others.
• A custom score for assessing methodological quality was developed.

Findings

Potential associations identified include various environmental exposures such as:

• Cadmium and well water consumption
• Nitrate presence in tap water and passive smoking
• Air pollution, pesticides, and certain parental occupations
• Consumption of meat in high quantities

Three studies highlighted the relationship between ELF during pregnancy and BT risk:

1. Exposure to electrically heated waterbeds and blankets
2. Furthermore, studies on childhood exposure to ELF and RF did not show significant association but mentioned small sample sizes and other methodological limitations.

Conclusion

Many studies suggest environmental factors may be linked to BT in children and young adults; however, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn due to limitations like small case numbers and inadequate exposure assessments. Larger studies with refined methodologies are recommended.