: Associated with a 142% increased risk .

: The study found no significant association between maternal infections and other types of childhood cancer, such as brain tumors or lymphoma, suggesting the risk is specific to leukemia. Context and Perspective

A recent, large-scale study of in Denmark has found that maternal infections during pregnancy are associated with a 35% increased risk of childhood leukemia . The research, published in JAMA Network Open , suggests that certain infections may trigger immune-related factors or genetic changes in the womb that set the stage for leukemia later in life. Key Findings from the Study

: Associated with a 65% increased risk .

Current scientific theories, such as the "delayed infection" hypothesis , suggest leukemia may be a two-step process: a genetic "hit" occurs in utero (potentially triggered by maternal inflammation), followed by a second "hit" from common infections in early childhood.

Experts like Jian-Rong He note that these findings do warrant immediate changes to clinical practice. Instead, they highlight the importance of:

: Mothers with an STI were significantly more likely to have a child develop leukemia.