One of the initial concerns about in vitro fertilisation when it was first devised over 30 years ago was that it might cause genetic or other health problems. IVF is widely considered safe but several studies have suggested a slightly higher risk of birth defects and other types of illness among children born via IVF, particularly cancer.

Previous studies have not been successful in finding a link between cancer and IVF, but the largest study yet on the question has found one. A Swedish research team examined data from 26,692 children born via IVF between 1982 and 2005. Instead of the 38 cases expected among this number based on normal rates of cancer in the general population, there were 53 cases of cancer.

Previous studies have shown IVF babies’ slightly higher rate of birth defects such as heart problems and cleft palates. According to research published in ScienceDaily a month ago, IVF babies also show a higher rate of autism. It remains unclear how IVF might cause birth defects or health problems later in life. The authors of this new study note that it could have nothing to do with the actual IVF procedure, but rather with characteristics of women who undergo IVF or from birth complications. The study was published in the journal Pediatrics. ~ LA Times, Jul 19, ScienceDaily, Jun 30