Maternal and childhood medical history and the risk of childhood brain tumours: a case-control study in Ontario, Canada

BackgroundStudies to date have yielded inconclusive results as to whether maternal medical history during pregnancy, and a child's early-life medical history contribute to the development of childhood brain tumours (CBTs). This study examined associations between maternal and childhood medical history and the risk of CBTs.MethodsThe Childhood Brain Tumour Epidemiology Study of Ontario (CBREO) examined children 0-15 years of age with newly diagnosed CBTs from 1997 to 2003. Multivariable logistic regression analysis determined associations for prenatal medications and childhood medical history, adjusted for child's demographics, and maternal education. Analyses were stratified by histology. A latency period analysis was conducted using 12- and 24-month lead times.ResultsMaternal intake of immunosuppressants during the prenatal period was significantly associated with glial tumours (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.17-6.39). Childhood intake of anti-epileptics was significantly associated with CBTs overall, after accounting for 12-month (OR 8.51, 95% CI 3.35-21.63) and 24-month (OR 6.04, 95% CI 2.06-17.70) lead time before diagnosis. No associations for other medications were found.ConclusionsThis study underscores the need to examine potential carcinogenic effects of the medication classes highlighted and of the indication of medication use. Despite possible reverse causality, increased CBT surveillance for children with epilepsy might be warranted.

Automated summary

This study examined the relationship between maternal and childhood medical history and the risk of childhood brain tumours (CBTs). It found that maternal use of immunosuppressants was significantly associated with glial tumours, while childhood use of anti-epileptics was significantly associated with CBTs overall. The study highlights the need for further research on the carcinogenic effects of these medications and the possibility of increased surveillance for children with epilepsy.