Mobile phone use and incidence of brain tumour histological types, grading or anatomical location: a population-based ecological study

Authors: Karipidis K, Elwood M, Benke G, Sanagou M, Tjong L, Croft RJ

Year: 2018 Dec 9

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: BMJ Open

Institution: BMJ Open

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024489

URL: https://bmjopen-bmj-com.libproxy.berkeley.edu/content/8/12/e024489.long

Abstract

Overview

This population-based ecological study examined the incidence of various brain tumour types over three distinct time periods in Australia, assessing potential influences from mobile phone use and advancements in diagnostic technology.

Design and Population

  • Analyzed National Australian cancer registration data from 1982 to 2013, covering 16,825 brain cancer cases aged 20-59.
  • Examined time trends for brain tumour incidence across three periods: 1982-1992, 1993-2002, 2003-2013.

Findings

  • Overall brain tumour rates remained stable through all periods.
  • Notable increase in glioblastoma during 1993-2002 potentially linked to improved MRI technology.
  • No significant increase in brain tumours, including gliomas or glioblastoma, attributed to mobile phone use from 2003-2013.
  • Observed brain tumour incidences were lower than predicted rates assuming mobile phone usage effects, for latency periods up to 15 years.

Conclusion

The study concludes that in Australia, there is no evidence of increased brain tumour rates related to mobile phone use. However, it leaves open the possibility of risks with longer latency or continuous exposure to mobile phones. Future research should consider long-term usage and extended latency periods.

brain tumour mobile phone use epidemiology glioblastoma cancer incidence
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