Literature review on cancer risk in children born after fertility treatment suggests increased risk of haematological cancers

Medically assisted fertility treatment, including assisted reproductive technology (ART), is increasingly being used and the subsequent child health outcomes are of interest. Some studies have suggested an elevated risk of somatic morbidity, while others have reported an elevated cancer risk. This review summarises the literature on fertility treatments and childhood cancer, based on 23 cohort and case-control studies.

Conclusion: The findings varied, but reassuring results on overall childhood cancer and fertility treatment were observed. However, some studies suggested an elevated risk of haematological cancers. More large population-based studies are needed, and the growing population of ART children should be monitored.