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Maternal Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Childhood Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Roya Rashti1, Faezeh Ghaaseemi1, Jalal Poorolajal1,2
1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention : APJCP
|March 1, 2025
Summary
Maternal alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of childhood cancers. This systematic review and meta-analysis highlights the need for public health initiatives to reduce prenatal alcohol exposure.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Childhood cancers represent a significant global health concern.
- Maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy is a suspected, yet inconsistently supported, risk factor.
- Existing evidence requires clarification through rigorous analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze observational studies.
- To clarify the association between maternal alcohol consumption and childhood cancer risk.
- To provide evidence for public health strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) up to May 2023.
- Inclusion of 31 observational studies with 47,277 participants.
- Meta-analysis using a random-effects model to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Main Results:
- Maternal alcohol consumption before pregnancy showed an increased risk of childhood cancers (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.33).
- Maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy also indicated an increased risk (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.20).
- Statistical heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports a positive association between maternal alcohol use and childhood cancer risk.
- Findings underscore the importance of reducing prenatal alcohol exposure.
- Public health interventions are recommended to mitigate this risk.
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