ELF Electromagnetic Fields and Childhood Leukaemia
Author Information
Author(s): J. Bell, M.P. Coleman
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK; International Agency for Research on Cancer, France
Hypothesis
Is there a risk of leukaemia in children from extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields?
Conclusion
The evidence suggests a potential increased risk of leukaemia in children exposed to ELF fields, although the risks are small.
Supporting Evidence
- Four of the six studies show an increased risk of leukaemia in children exposed to ELF fields.
- The highest risk found was a two-fold increase in the original study by Wertheimer and Leeper.
- Two recent studies designed to avoid bias gave similar results that approached statistical significance.
- Further studies are needed to clarify the association between ELF fields and leukaemia.
Takeaway
Some studies suggest that living near certain types of electrical fields might slightly increase the chance of children getting leukaemia.
Methodology
Epidemiological studies comparing high field homes to low field homes.
Potential Biases
Some studies were criticized for their methodology, which may have introduced bias.
Limitations
The statistical power is limited due to the rarity of high-field homes and uncertainties in exposure estimates.
Participant Demographics
Children living in homes with varying levels of electromagnetic field exposure.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.9-2.3
Statistical Significance
approached formal statistical significance
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website