Childhood Cancer and Overhead Powerlines
Author Information
Author(s): A. Myers, A.D. Clayden, R.A. Cartwright, S.C. Cartwright
Primary Institution: University of Leeds
Hypothesis
Is there an association between childhood cancer and the proximity of overhead power lines?
Conclusion
The study found no association between childhood cancer and either the proximity to or the magnetic fields of overhead power lines.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included 374 cases and 588 controls.
- Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in odds ratios for calculated power line fields.
- Most cases and controls had zero estimated magnetic fields.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether living near power lines causes childhood cancer, but it found no evidence that it does.
Methodology
A case-control study comparing 374 childhood cancer cases with 588 matched controls based on proximity to overhead power lines and calculated magnetic fields.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to incomplete data from the Yorkshire Childhood Cancer Registry and the matching process for controls.
Limitations
The study had limited statistical power due to the small number of children living close to power lines and lacked direct measurements of magnetic fields at case or control addresses.
Participant Demographics
Children diagnosed with cancer under 15 years old in the Yorkshire Health Region between 1970 and 1979.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website