No Evidence for Increased Brain Tumor Incidence in the Swedish National Cancer Register Between 1980-2012

Authors: Nilsson J, Järås J, Henriksson R, Holgersson G, Bergström S, Estenberg J, Augustsson T, Bergqvist M

Year: 2019 Feb

Category: Oncology, Epidemiology

Journal: Anticancer Res

Institution: Swedish Cancer Registry

DOI: 10.21873/anticanres.13176

URL: http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/39/2/791.long

Abstract

Overview

The study aimed to explore the incidence of brain tumors in Sweden over the period from 1980 to 2012, which corresponds to the rise in mobile phone usage.

Materials and Methods

Data collection was conducted using the Swedish Cancer Registry, focusing on meningiomas, low-grade gliomas (LGG), and high-grade gliomas (HGG).
Direct age-standardised rates were utilized to determine incidence trends.

Findings

The analysis revealed 13,441 cases of meningiomas, 12,259 cases of HGG, and 4,555 cases of LGG reported. Despite the findings suggesting an overall stability or slight decrease in incidence rates for LGG, there was a noteworthy point:

A specific increase in HGG within the age group 60-74, marking a potential concern linked to electromagnetic field exposure from mobile phones.

Conclusion

The study did not find a broad increase in glioma incidence; however, the slight increase in HGG incidence in older adults may suggest a more nuanced impact of electromagnetic exposure, potentially representing a public health concern. The methodology used, particularly the linear regression approach on time-series data with potential autocorrelation, raised questions regarding its of data analysis.

Critical Note

The article's title potentially downplays significant findings within specific age groups that suggest an increased risk, warranting caution and further investigation into electromagnetic field effects on health.

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