Static Electromagnetic Fields Effects On Your Health

Electromagnetic fields are found everywhere but cannot be seen. The earth has a natural magnetic field to maintain a directional orientation while revolving, and electric fields are present in the atmosphere. Man made fields have also evolved in recent years with the introduction of electricity and the continued development of new products, such as microwaves and cellular phones. Electromagnetic fields can exert biological influence and changes in the body.

Electromagnetic fields are present in homes and businesses, and they surround people on a daily basis. Newer technologies such as Gamma radiation therapy or x-rays used in healthcare, as well as daily exposures to microwaves, radio frequencies, and cellular phone towers have raised fears of a link between these sources and cancer. Various studies have been performed, and investigations have been made of claims of increases in symptoms that could possibly be related to an exposure to electromagnetic fields over an extended period of time. Studies are ongoing and research continues in these areas.

There are many fears surrounding exposure to electromagnetic fields and their effect on human health. Many studies have been conducted that have shown that small amounts of exposure to these fields that are present in the home or environment show no adverse effects. Alternatively, large amounts of exposure are prevented by the regulation of high levels of electromagnetic fields by the work of specific agencies and by national regulations. The concerns regarding adverse health effects are related to long-term exposure to low levels of electromagnetic fields.

Research has been done in several areas to determine a correlation between electromagnetic fields and adverse health effects. Scientists measure electromagnetic fields in terms of voltage and frequency. Laboratory studies determine what cellular or molecular changes these high frequency fields will elicit. Scientists also perform research analysis of the effects on lab animals, as well as epidemiological studies in the environment to determine cause-and-effect relationships between electromagnetic fields and adverse health outcomes. Currently, there is no scientific evidence that has been found directly linking the use of cellular phones, microwaves, and other forms of electromagnetic fields to cancer.

The electromagnetic fields that are in the environment all vary in strength but produce small amounts of voltage. Federal and international guidelines have set limits for the maximum daily exposure recommended for people. This guideline is set slightly higher for workers that may have occupational exposure. Appliances, power lines, computer screens, cellular phone towers, and many other items are all sources of exposure on a daily basis.

Several of these items have reduced exposure due to structures surrounding them. For example, a person would receive more exposure by standing under a power line than sleeping in a home located near one. The structure of the house provides a barrier and reduces the levels of exposure. Scientists have determined that for most people, a typical day of exposure to these various fields does not exceed the recommended limits.

Research continues in the study of electromagnetic fields and health. Until a connection between adverse health effects and electromagnetic fields can be completely disproved, there will always be speculation about this theory. Fortunately, guidelines for electromagnetic fields are in place and safety standards are maintained to protect the health of people and their daily lives.