Health effects of electromagnetic fields

The biological basis for the exposure limit values are the result of long-term research. The heating of tissues and stimulation of nerves caused by powerful electromagnetic fields is relatively well established knowledge.

When exposure by a field is not very high, and known effects are not produced, we talk about low-level exposure. There are different theories and assumptions about the biological effects and health risks associated with relatively weak electromagnetic fields, but there is no scientifically-convincing proof which would support the idea of setting lower limits. These effects must also be studied so we can be sure that protective measures are adequate.

In recent times, special attention has been focused on the risk of cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently classed low frequency magnetic fields as a carcinogen (class 2B) on the basis of observations of leukaemia by epidemiologists. However, many factors weaken the credibility of this kind of epidemiological studies. The claimed link between magnetic fields and cancer is so weak that, on the basis of the studies, it is difficult to point to magnetic fields as increasing the risk of illness. If there is a risk, it is likely so low that the magnetic fields of power lines in Finland could possibly cause at most a few cases of cancer per decade.

The effects of the use of mobile phones on health, and in particular the effects of the triggering mechanism of cancer have been published in several studies and reviews. The risk of cancer to users has so far been researched in several epidemiological studies. Not a single reliable study has reported a clear increased risk of developing a brain tumour. The general conclusion has been that there is no proof of harmful effects. This does not, however, prove that it is incontrovertibly safe, as it is very difficult to discount all potential risks.

The origin and mechanisms behind the electrical hypersensitivity are not known

WHO Fact sheet (no. 296) on electrical hypersensitivity

• EHS is characterized by a variety of non-specific symptoms that differ from individual to individual.

• The symptoms are certainly real and can vary widely in their severity.

• Whatever its cause, EHS can be a disabling problem for the affected individual.

• EHS has no clear diagnostic criteria and there is no scientific basis to link EHS symptoms to EMF exposure.

• EHS is not a medical diagnosis, nor is it clear that it represents  a single medical problem. 

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs296/en/index.html