[Risk factors for neuroblastoma]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Environmental Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common pediatric cancer of the sympathetic nervous system.
• Its unpredictable behavior and poorly understood risk factors present significant challenges.
• NB affects the first decades of life, necessitating research into its etiopathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and disseminate knowledge on constitutional and environmental risk factors for neuroblastoma.
• To encourage collaboration among pediatricians in the "Environment and Pediatric Cancer" research project.
• To review scientific evidence linking various factors to NB development.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was conducted over the previous 25 years.
• Databases searched included Medline, Science Citation Index, and Embase.
• Search terms focused on neuroblastoma, childhood sympathetic nervous system neoplasms, and risk factors/etiology/epidemiology.

Main Results:

• Identified risk factors with varying evidence include genetic, geographic, ethnic, socioeconomic, infectious, physical, parental occupational, gestational, perinatal, and maternal factors.
• Breastfeeding and maternal intake of vitamin supplements during pregnancy are associated with a reduced risk of NB.
• Multiple factors contribute to the risk profile of neuroblastoma.

Conclusions:

• Complex biology, rarity, and epidemiological study challenges hinder the identification of evidence-based NB risk factors.
• Stimulating research into constitutional and environmental factors is crucial for understanding NB.
• Exclusive breastfeeding for over six months is recommended as the primary preventive strategy for neuroblastoma.