Application of an obstetric comorbidity index to predict childhood cancer risk: a population based case-control study in Denmark.

BACKGROUND

Maternal health during pregnancy appears to impact childhood cancer risk, yet comprehensive studies remain scarce. This study investigates associations between childhood cancer and multiple maternal comorbidities.

METHODS

A population-based case-control study was conducted using Danish national registers, with maternal health conditions identified from the National Patient Register and Medical Births Registry. We employed the Obstetric Comorbidity Index using ICD-8 and ICD-10 codes. The study population (1977-2013) included 6419 cases and 160484 matched controls. Conditional logistic regression estimated pediatric cancer risk.

RESULTS

A maternal comorbidity score of one or more was linked to acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL; OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.03-1.12), retinoblastoma (OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 0.94-1.23), and rhabdomyosarcoma (OR = 1.11, 95%CI: 0.98-1.26). Pre-existing diabetes (OR = 1.82, 95%CI: 1.28-2.59), previous cesarean delivery (OR = 1.20, 95%CI: 1.02-1.41), and gestational hypertension (OR = 1.27, 95%CI: 1.01-1.59) were associated with increased cancer risks in offspring. Slightly higher risks were noted for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (OR = 1.05, 95%CI: 0.96-1.16) and Burkitt lymphoma (OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 0.92-1.27) among children whose mothers had one or more comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

An obstetric comorbidity index can predict childhood cancer risk. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to reduce adverse health consequences for offspring.