Abstract

Overview

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to understand the relationship between occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

• Comprehensive search through EMBASE, MEDLINE, and other databases.
• Inclusion of studies reporting ALS risk estimates related to ELF-MF exposure.
• Random effect meta-analysis with stratified analyses based on exposure assessment methods.

Findings

• A total of 20 studies were included.
• Discovering a slightly increased risk of ALS in populations with high ELF-MF exposure versus low exposure.
• Summary relative risks varied, indicating significant heterogeneity linked to exposure assessment quality.

Conclusion

Our analysis emphasizes a discernible albeit light increase in ALS risk among workers dealing with higher ELF- magnetic fields, specifically for those in electrical occupations. The results underline the importance of how exposure is assessed in such studies.