Case-control study on occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields and glioma risk

Authors: Carlberg M, Koppel T, Ahonen M, Hardell L

Year: 2017 Apr 10

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Am J Ind Med

Institution: Am J Ind Med

DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22707

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28394434

Abstract

Overview

The study discusses the implications of occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) and its classification as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Methods

Life time occupations of participants were assessed in case-control studies conducted over two periods: 1997-2003 and 2007-2009.
An ELF-EMF Job-Exposure Matrix was utilized to associate occupations with specific levels of ELF exposure in microtesla (μT).
Researchers calculated cumulative exposure in μT-years, average exposure (μT), and exposure in the most affected job (μT).

Findings

Cumulative exposure analysis demonstrated that:

For astrocytoma grade IV (glioblastoma multiforme), in the 1-14 years exposure window, the odds ratio (OR) was 1.9 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.4-2.6, showing a significant increase (p <0.001).
In contrast, in the 15+ years exposure window, OR was 0.9 (CI = 0.6-1.3), showing no significant trend (p = 0.44).

Conclusion

The study found an increased risk of developing late-stage astrocytoma grade IV associated with occupational exposure to high levels of ELF-EMF. This underlines the potential promotion/progression of cancer due to prolonged exposure in occupational settings.

ELF-EMF carcinogen occupational exposure glioma astrocytoma electromagnetic fields epidemiology

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