The increasing use of cosmetic non-ionising radiation applications - types of procedures, potential risks to consumers and regulation in Australia.

In recent years, there has been a large increase in cosmetic applications using non-ionising radiation (NIR). These applications use various types of NIR such as lasers and ultrasound for numerous cosmetic outcomes such as epilation, skin rejuvenation and tattoo removal. Cosmetic NIR procedures are marketed as a low-cost and low-risk alternative to more invasive procedures.

Effectiveness, compliance and application of sunscreen for solar ultraviolet radiation protection in Australia.

Unlabelled: Objectives and importance of study: Sunscreens are widely used, not only to prevent acute sunburn, but also for skin cancer prevention and protection against photoaging and other skin conditions related to cumulative solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure. When correctly applied, sunscreens reduce the amount of UVR reaching the skin and therefore they can reduce harmful effects of such exposures. This paper examines the benefits and risks of sunscreens, compliance requirements and how sunscreen should be used for optimal effectiveness.

Assessment of bias in a survey of residential magnetic fields in Melbourne, Australia.

An important consideration in surveys of residential magnetic fields is whether the sample of homes measured is representative of the population. This study assessed the potential bias in a survey of magnetic fields conducted in 296 homes randomly selected from the telephone directory in Melbourne. The choice of the telephone directory as the sampling frame introduced some bias when compared with census information.

Survey of residential power-frequency magnetic fields in Melbourne, Australia.

Pooled analyses of epidemiological studies have reported an association between prolonged residential exposure to power-frequency magnetic fields of >0.4 μT and an increased risk in childhood leukaemia. In order to compare residential magnetic fields in Australia with those in other countries, a survey was conducted in 296 randomly selected homes in Melbourne.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and occupational radiation exposure assessed using local data.

Background: Our previous investigation of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation using a Finnish job-exposure matrix (JEM) showed no association with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in a population-based case-control study in Australia.

Aims: To determine whether occupational exposure to ionizing radiation assessed using an Australian JEM is associated with NHL.

Methods: We analysed 694 NHL cases, first diagnosed between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2001 and 694 controls from south-eastern Australia, matched by age, sex and region of residence.

Occupational exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and risk of glioma.

Background: Although the aetiology of glioma is poorly understood, the higher incidence in males has long suggested an occupational cause.

Aim: To investigate possible associations between occupational exposure to ionizing, ultraviolet (UV), radiofrequency (RF) and extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation and adult glioma risk.

Methods: Case-control study using histologically confirmed cases of glioma first diagnosed between 1987 and 1991 in Melbourne, Australia, matched by age, sex and postcode of residence.

Occupational exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Objective: To investigate the association between occupational exposure to ionizing, ultraviolet (UV), radiofrequency (RF) and extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation and risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in a population-based case-control study.

Methods: The study population consisted of 694 NHL cases, first diagnosed between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2001, and 694 controls from two regions in Australia, matched by age, sex and region of residence. A detailed occupation history was first obtained using a lifetime calendar and a telephone interview.

Occupational exposure to low frequency magnetic fields and the risk of low grade and high grade glioma.

Objective: The purpose of this population-based case control study was to investigate a possible association between occupational exposure to low frequency magnetic fields and the risk of low grade glioma (LGG) and high grade glioma (HGG).

Methods: The study population consisted of 414 histologically confirmed cases of glioma (LGG=110, HGG=304), first diagnosed between July 1987 and December 1991, and 421 controls from Melbourne, Australia, matched by age, sex and postcode of residence. A detailed occupational history was obtained for each subject.