ArdorComm Media News Network
July 9, 2025
A recent study from Sweden suggests that babies delivered through planned caesarean sections may face a higher risk of developing leukaemia—specifically acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)—compared to those born via emergency C-sections or vaginal delivery.
The study, conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institutet and published in The International Journal of Cancer, analysed health data from nearly 2.5 million children born between 1982–1989 and 1999–2015, using Sweden’s Medical Birth Register. Of the total births, around 375,000 (15.5%) were delivered through C-sections. Among these, 1,495 children were later diagnosed with leukaemia.
The researchers found that children born via C-section had a 7% higher risk of developing acute lymphoblastic leukaemia compared to those born vaginally. Notably, when comparing types of C-sections, those delivered by planned (elective) C-section faced a 21% increased risk of ALL than those born through emergency C-sections.
One possible explanation, the study suggests, lies in the differing levels of exposure to beneficial bacteria and birth stress. Emergency C-sections typically occur after the onset of labour, and if the amniotic sac has ruptured, the baby is partially exposed to vaginal microbes and the physical stress of labour—factors that might positively influence immune development. Planned C-sections, on the other hand, are often scheduled before labour begins, limiting such exposure.
Lead researcher Christina-Evmorfia Kampitsi emphasized that the findings shouldn’t cause undue concern for mothers who require medically necessary C-sections. However, she noted that the results support existing research indicating that planned C-sections may also be linked to increased risks of asthma, allergies, and type 1 diabetes in children.
“These insights strengthen the case for carefully evaluating the necessity of non-medically indicated planned caesarean deliveries,” Kampitsi said.
The study contributes to a growing body of evidence exploring how early-life exposures—especially those related to birth methods—may influence long-term health outcomes, including the development of childhood cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
Source: PTI