Latest research shows that high birth weight may be linked to high risk of leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Extreme birth weights (high or low) could also be linked to a high risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The scientists’ work suggests that childhood leukemia can be traced back in utero. 32 studies were carried out by Dr. Robert W. Caughey (Harvard School of Public Health), and Dr. Karin B. Michels (Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston), they noted the association between weight at birth and childhood leukemia, as well as AML and ALL.

Results showed that high birth weight was linked to a 35 percent increase in leukemia risk, 23 percent increase risk of ALL, and 40 percent increase risk of AML. Every 1000 gram increase in birth weight shows the odds increasing by 1.18. Michels said that childhood leukemia was linked to in utero, and events in pregnancy might affect the leukemia risk for the child. The risk of leukemia may be linked to gene modification, epigenetic factors, etc.