Abstract

Abstract Overview

Background: Past studies have shown a consistent link between childhood leukaemia and magnetic fields. This study evaluates the inconsistencies related to distance from overhead power lines, exploring whether the impact is related to magnetic fields or other factors associated with proximity to these lines.

Methods

• A comprehensive pooled analysis combining individual data from 29,049 cases and 68,231 controls across 11 record-based studies.

Findings

• No significant association was found between childhood leukaemia and proximity to power lines across all distances.
• However, a slightly higher risk ratio was noted, although not statistically significant, for children living within 50 meters of 200+ kV lines, particularly in children diagnosed before age five.
• Adjustments for potential confounders did not change the outcomes.

Conclusion

This comprehensive analysis indicates a minimal and ambiguous risk for children living close to high-voltage power lines, which is not attributable to direct magnetic field exposures. The source of the slightly elevated risk discerned in numerous studies remains unexplained, underscoring the persistent concern regarding EMF exposure and its potential links to health risks, particularly childhood leukaemia.