[Risk factors of cancer in children under 14 years old]

ABSTRACT

Recognition of the risk factors of childhood cancer has been important. However, there is little identification about these risk factors. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors of cancer in children under14 years old. The present study has been a case-control study of 14-year-old children. 98 childhood cancer cases and 100 controls were matched on age and sex. Data were collected using a questionnaire with some of the known and suspected risk factors of cancer via the parent, and were analyzed with two independent samples t-tests, chi-square and logistic regression models. In this study, low- educational status in mothers and fathers increased risk of childhood cancer [p<0.05]. Children lived in low-income families [500000-1500000 Rails per month], and had a significantly higher risk of cancer [Odds ratios=3.08; 95% CI=4-6.00]. Fathers smoking during pregnancy [odds ratio=3.00] and living near high voltage power lines [Odds ratios=1.5] were significantly related to an increased risk of cancer in children. In addition, there was a higher risk of cancer particularly among heavy [>/= 11 cigarettes per days] smokers [odds ratio= 2.7]. The results of this study indicated that some risk factors such as living conditions, smoking fathers during pregnancy, parental educational level and financial status were associated with the risk of childhood cancer. Therefore, public health should aim at improving environmental and familial socioeconomic status for all children; efforts should be concentrated on planning preventive and educational campaigns