Abstract

Overview

Occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) is common in several occupations and has been hypothesized as a potential risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

• The study conducted a comprehensive literature search across multiple bibliographic databases as of November 2017.
• Studies were assessed for risk of bias, and a random-effects meta-analysis was performed to aggregate the data.
• Assessment of heterogeneity and exploration of publication bias were also performed.

Findings

Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria, demonstrating an increased risk of AD with occupational ELF-MF exposure. Pooled risk ratio (RR) was calculated at 1.63 (95% CI: 1.35, 1.96). Case-control studies showed higher risk estimates (OR: 1.80) compared to cohort studies (RR: 1.42).

There was moderate to high heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 61.0%), and an indication of publication bias was noted (Egger test: p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The meta-analysis suggests a significant association between ELF-MF exposure in occupational settings and increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, highlighting a need for cautious interpretation due to factors including heterogeneity and potential publication bias.