Seasonality of Birth in Children with CNS Tumours in Denmark
Author Information
Author(s): Schmidt L S, Grell K, Frederiksen K, Johansen C, Schmiegelow K, Schüz J
Primary Institution: Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, Danish Cancer Society
Hypothesis
Is there a seasonal variation in the births of children diagnosed with central nervous system tumours in Denmark?
Conclusion
The study found no overall seasonal variation in births among children with CNS tumours, but ependymoma showed a significant seasonal pattern.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included 1640 children diagnosed with CNS tumours.
- Ependymoma showed a significant seasonal variation with a peak in January.
- No significant seasonal variation was found for other types of CNS tumours.
Takeaway
The researchers looked at when children with brain tumors were born and found that while most types didn't show a pattern, one type called ependymoma did have more births in January.
Methodology
The study used nationwide cancer and population registers to compare births of children with CNS tumours to the general population.
Potential Biases
The study may have risks of bias due to the reliance on administrative registers and potential misclassification of cases.
Limitations
The study's findings may be influenced by small subgroup sizes and potential biases in case ascertainment.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 0–19 years diagnosed with primary CNS tumours in Denmark from 1970 to 2003.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.006
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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