Reproductive factors have low impact on the risk of different primary brain tumours in offspring

Objectives: The aim of our study was to investigate whether reproductive factors influence the risk of primary brain tumours (PBT) in offspring. Methods: Data on all deliveries in two Swedish counties from 1955 to 1990 were extracted from two birth registries. The follow-up period closed at the end of 1994, with subjects followed up to early middle age. Incidence rates of malignancy for 1958-1994 were obtained from the Swedish Cancer Registry. Standardised incidence ratios (SIR) and relative risks were calculated for astrocytomas, primitive neuroectodermal tumour, ependymoma and meningiomas in offspring. Results: Few associations were detected. High birth weight indicated an increased risk for astrocytomas grade I and II for all primary brain tumours, and the risk was close to significance for astrocytomas grade I-II (SIR = 3.64; CI = 0.98-9.31). For children under 15 years of age the risk for astrocytomas grade I and II was further increased (SIR = 4.44; Cl = 1.19-11.38). Conclusions:A consistent pattern of non-association indicated a low impact of intrauterine environment on the future development of primary brain tumours in offspring up to early middle age. Copyright (C) 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel.