May 11, 2011.  The Toronto CN Tower, the world’s tallest tower at a height of 1815 feet, is offering a new attraction for those wanting a great view of Toronto and a real thrill: EdgeWalk. Starting August 1st 2011, for only $175,  you will be able to walk around the outside of the CN Tower with a hook to an overhead rail keeping you in place!  Read Carola Vyhnak’s report in the Toronto Star.

Those who participate may get an adrenalin rush not only from the height but also from the radiation emitted by the TV, radio and cell towers.

The CN Tower, completed in 1976, was built to improve communication for the police, firefighters, ambulance drivers, and for those wanting better TV and radio reception.  It is currently home to hundreds of antennas and provides transmission for UHF, VHF, television, FM radio, microwave transmissions and fixed mobile systems. According to the official website, “All major Broadcast, AM, FM, and DAB Radio stations as well as wireless service providers use the CN Tower for transmission.“

According to one source, when the CBC built their building on Front St. W., across from the CN Tower, they had to install a lot of shielding to prevent interference.

A Report on the Safety from Electromagnetic Radiation in and around the CN Tower, produced by the Radiation Protection Bureau and published by the Minister of National Health and Welfare stated that radiation exposure levels from the CN Tower Toronto  in 1976 “are within currently accepted limits for both microwave radiation for workers in the Tower and for the general public” and that “[t]here does not appear to be a health hazard from the electromagnetic radiations emitted from the CN Tower.”

Yet, based on the very same document, a senior official with the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration stated that maintenance workers may be exposed to potentially harmful levels of radiation.

Click here for the 1980 Globe and Mail article “Radiation at CN Tower higher than US allows” and the corresponding health study about the CN Tower.

How could interpretation of the same data be so different? It turns out that the levels presented in the 1977 document are for individual broadcast frequencies used by TV and radio stations. If you add them all up for their cumulative exposure, it leads to a serious underestimate of wireless radiation exposures to people working near to the tower.  In one area that is only accessible to maintenance workers, it exceeded the Canadian safety guidelines and this area was designated a health hazard.

Back 25 years ago when these readings were taken the document states many of the transmitters placed on the tower were not yet functional. Since 1977, many more antennas for radio, tv and now cellphones have been installed on the CN Tower.  Today, if you walk around the City of Toronto with a radio frequency meter, the levels of radiation increase whenever you are in line of sight of the tower.  Are the levels at the CN Tower still below guidelines?  But more important, are the radiation levels safe for those who visit, work and now walk on the roof of the CN Tower? What about exposure of those who work and live in buildings surround the CN Tower? Will those who sign up for the EdgeWalk get more than they bargained for?

*****

REPORT ON THE SAFETY FROM ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATIONS IN AND AROUND THE CN TOWER, TORONTO, MH Repacholi and MA Stuchly, Radiation Protection Bureau, Environmental Health Centre, Ottawa, 1977, 53 pp.

ABSTRACT

During July 1976 a survey of the electromagnetic radiation emissions from the CN Tower was made, to assess any possible health hazards to the general public and employees working within the Tower. Field intensity measurements were taken at all levels of occupancy within the CN Tower, on the roof of 5 downtown Toronto buildings, on 3 floors of the Bank of Montreal Building, and at ground level of the Toronto Dominion Plaza. Measurements were also taken along east, west and north radials from the CN Tower for distances up to 20 miles.

Unfortunately, at the time of the survey, not all the broadcast equipment had been installed into the CN Tower and some of the stations were not operating at their fully licenced power levels. However the survey results indicate that microwave radiation exposure levels are within currently accepted limits for both microwave radiation workers in the tower and for the general public. There does not appear to be a health hazard from the electromagnetic radiations emitted from the CN Tower.

Some interesting results from this document are as follows:

1.  The highest reading (2000 microW/cm²), in FM transmitter rooms Level 5, was double the Canadian guideline  (1000 microW/cm²) but was in a location that is not easily accessible and not frequently accessed.  I wonder if this area has signs stating that levels are above guidelines to warn workers? Level 5 is located right beside the EdgeWalk platform.

2.  The next highest reading (13 microW/cm²)  was at a height of 477 m.

3.  Power density readings are provided individually for each frequency on the space deck, sky pod roof, restaurant, upper and lower observation decks, outdoor terrace, and for the surrounding buildings.  This doesn’t make any sense from an exposure perspective as people in these areas are exposed to all of the frequencies simultaneously.  As a result this is a serious underestimation of the actual exposure and may account for difference in interpretation with Health and Welfare Canada stating this was safe and the US government recognizing that the cumulative frequencies are important and stating it was unsafe.

4.  It would be worth repeating these measurements in the same locations to see how much they have increased before opening this rooftop amusement attraction to the public.  Click here to learn more about safety procedures for workers that repair TV, radio and cell towers like the CN Tower.

April 13, 2011.  Swanson and colleagues from the International Labour Office (Geneva, Switzerland) and the Bureau of Occupational Safety and Health, Public Health Services (Cincinnati, Ohio) reviewed guidelines for microwave radiation and published their review in the American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Vol. 31:  623-629 (1970).  Click here to download a pdf of this article.

Below is some information from this article.  My comments appear in square brackets. To convert from mW/cm² to microW/cm² multiple by 1000.

United States

1.     From 1940s to 1970s the use of microwave emitting equipment had increased considerably.

2.     In the United States radio frequencies (RF) from 10 to 10,000 MHz were classified as microwave radiation, while in Europe the range was from 300 to 300,000 MHz. [NOTE:  We now use the European range to delineate the microwave part of the radio frequency spectrum.]

3.     By 1970, scientists recognized that parts of the body that are unable to dissipate heat are the most vulnerable to microwave radiation.  This includes the lens of the eye (cataracts) and the reproductive organs (sterility or degenerative changes).

4.     Depth of penetration of radiation into tissue is a function of frequency with greater penetration at lower frequencies.

5.     In the United States the first guidelines were established during the Tri-Service conference, held in 1957.  Below is a quote about the guidelines:

It was the opinion of those participating in the Conference that there were not sufficient data to determine safe exposure levels for each frequency, or ranges of frequencies, within the microwave region; therefore, a level of 10 mW/cm² [10,000 microW/cm²] was selected for all frequencies. The U.S. Air Force, in adopting this exposure level in May 1958, applied it to the frequency range of 300 to 30,000 MHz and established it as a maximum permissible exposure level, which could not be exceeded. The only factor considered in this criterion is the power density level. Such factors as time of exposure, ambient environmental temperatures that could have an increased or decreased effect on the body’s thermal response, the frequency of the microwave energy, effects of multifrequency exposures, differing sensitivity of various body organs, and effect of air currents on cooling the body are not considered, although they are all recognized as factors that might affect biological response.

[NOTE:  It was clear in 1970 that the US guidelines were somewhat arbitrary, were based on thermal effects only, and did not include other factors that influence biological and health consequences. This guideline has since been lowered from 10 to 1 mW/cm² but is still 100 to 1000 times higher than guidelines in other countries.]

UK, West Germany, France and Netherlands

6.     Guidelines in the UK and in West Germany allowed citizens to be exposed to 10 mW/cm² (same as in U.S).

7.     In France only military personnel during working hours were allowed to be exposed to 10 mW/cm².  In rest areas and in public areas the guidelines were 1 mW/cm².

8.     In the Netherlands the guidelines were at 1 mW/cm².

Poland, USSR, Czechoslovakia

9.     Guidelines in the eastern European Block countries were much more protective than those in western countries.

Poland

10.   Polish guidelines, established in 1961 and 1963, were as follows:

• 10 microW/cm² [0.01 mW/cm²]  – no limitation for time of work or sojourn in this field.
• 10 and 100 microW/cm² [0.01 and 0.1 mW/cm²]- cumulative time of work or sojourn not to exceed 2 hours in every 24 hours
• 100 and 1000 microW/cm² [0.1 and 1 mW/cm²]- cumulative time of work or sojourn not to exceed 20 minutes in 24 hours.

11.  The Polish regulation  requires an annual medical examination for exposed workers including neurological and ophthalmological examinations; safe placement of microwave generating installations; protective screening; personnel protection; site surveillance; and safety education.

12.  The Polish regulation forbids work with microwave radiation for young people (age not provided), pregnant women, and other people suffering from certain diseases, which are listed in the regulation.

USSR

13.  The USSR standards were based on time of exposure as follows:

• 10 microW/cm² [0.01 mW/cm²] for a working day
• 100 microW/cm² [0.1 mW/cm²] for 2 hours daily
• 1000 microW/cm² [1 mW/cm²] for 15 minutes daily [so at 1000 microW/cm² the Soviets could be exposed for only 15 minutes, the Poles for only 20 minutes but the Americans could be exposed for 24 hours each day!

14.  The U.S.S.R. is also one of the first to propose exposure standards for intermediate-frequency electromagnetic radiation [dirty electricity], which heretofore had been considered as having no effect on the human body. These levels are:

• Medium wave (100 kHz – 3 MHz) – 20 volts/ meter [29 microW/cm²]
• Short wave (3 MHz- 30 MHz)- 5 volts/ meter  [1.8 microW/cm²]
• Ultra short wave (30 MHz- 300 MHz)- 5 volts/ meter [1.8 microW/cm²]

[NOTE:  The WHO has recently recognized the importance of intermediate frequencies (IF) and the information they provide is severely limited].

15.  Medical examinations are regulated in the Soviet Union for persons exposed to electromagnetic radiation. Medical counter indications are enforced so that workers are not allowed to be exposed to microwave radiation if specified diseases exist. Heavy emphasis is placed on blood disorders, neurological disturbances, and chronic eye diseases.

16.  Preventive measures of an engineering nature are used by Soviet health and epidemiological centers to ensure compliance with their health regulations. Decreasing the amount of radiated energy, reflective and absorptive screening, and personnel protection measures are widely used for personnel operating microwave equipment.

Czechoslovakia, 1965, above 300 MHz:

17.  The following values are considered for the general population and other workers not employed in generation of electromagnetic energy as tolerable doses of radiation not to be exceeded at the person’s location during one calendar day :

• for continuous generation in the microwave frequencies- value = 60 where the energy is expressed in microwatts per square centimeter and the time in hours [(microW/cm²) X t (hours) < 60 ; therefore twenty-four hours exposure time corresponds to an average energy flow of 2.5 microW/cm²].

• for pulsed generation in the microwave frequencies- value = 24 where the energy is expressed in microwatts per square centimeter and the time in hours [(microW/cm²) X t(hours) < 24; therefore twenty- four hours exposure corresponds to an average pulsed energy flow of 1 microW/cm²].

18.  The final point that is worth noting is the authors’ recommendation that “in applying the concept of a time-weighted exposure the health specialist must consider how far the dose- time relationship can be extrapolated.”

Extrapolation of the dose-time relationship.

Both cell phones and WiFi routers use pulsed microwave radiation and it is well known that pulsed microwave radiation is more harmful than continuous wave radiation.  If we apply the Czech time-weighted concept for pulsed radiation we get the following (see last four rows in table 1).  These values begin to approach the Salzburg recommended guidelines for outdoor (0.1 microW/cm²) and indoor (0.01 microW/cm²) exposure.

Table 1.  Comparison of time-weight exposure guidelines in selected countries.

Clearly guidelines that differ 4 orders of magnitude (from 10,000 to 1 microW/cm²) need to be addressed.

March 7, 2011.  During the past year I have become increasingly interested in the effects of microwave radiation on the heart.  This interest is based on a number of observations.

Some people who are electrically sensitive complain that they have a rapid or irregular heart beat and feel chest pressure or pain (Eltiti, 2007).  We conducted a “proof of concept” study to determine if we could measure heart rate changes caused by microwave radiation with real-time monitoring.  We found that some individuals developed a rapid or an irregular heart beat when exposed to pulsed microwaves (from a cordless phone base station) at levels considered safe by the WHO, FCC, and Health Canada (Havas et al. 2010).

During the past year I have heard stories that children who attend schools with WiFi are complaining of a racing heart while in school (link to video).  Two of these students in the Barrie area (Canada) were given heart monitors to wear and one young girl was scheduled for heart surgery because her cardiologist couldn’t figure out what was wrong.  Her parents postponed the operation, removed the WiFi in their home, and her symptoms did not return during the summer when she wasn’t attending school.

During the past few years two different students, also in the Barrie region, experienced exercise-related sudden cardiac arrest.  Fortunately they got help quickly and survived.  Schools have now installed defibrillators as a consequence.

Is it normal for young people to complain of heart problems and for two students in a relatively small community to experience sudden cardiac arrest?

I began to research this subject and learned that sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death among athletes (Drezner et al. 2008) and appears to be increasing among adolescents and young adults (Maron et al. 2009; Zheng et al. 2005).  Sudden death among athletes increased slowly from 1980 to 1995 and then rose suddenly in 1996 and continued to increase up to 2006, when the study was terminated (Maron et al. 2009) (See figure 1). Coronary heart disease and blunt trauma to the chest during competition have been identified as the cause in some cases but other cases remain a mystery.

Doctors do not know the reason for this disturbing trend and according to one study (Dencheve et al. 2010), medication for children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may increase the risk for sudden cardiac death.

One aspect that has not be considered is the increasing exposure to microwave radiation from mobile phones, cell phone antennas, and wireless technologies in the home and school environment.  Could it be that our low level exposure to microwave radiation is placing undue stress on the nervous system of these children and is contributing to heart irregularities that become exacerbated with exercise resulting in sudden cardiac arrest?  If microwaves at low intensities (as shown in our study) can affect adult hearts then this radiation can certainly affect the hearts of children.

In November 2010, two schools in the Barrie area were monitored for microwave radiation.  What is particularly disturbing about the results obtained is that of the 20 rooms measured 17 of the classrooms had levels at or above the levels that caused heart irregularities among adults in our heart rate variability study (0.003 milliwatts/cm²). But even more disturbing is that levels of microwave radiation exceeded Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 guideline near a computer in one classroom (1.342 vs 1 milliW/cm²)!  I will write more about this in a separate report.

We know that pace makers can malfunction if they are exposed to interfering microwave frequencies and people with pace makers are told to stay away from microwave ovens and other microwave emitting devices.  The newer pace makers have shielding to prevent interference.  But the human heart comes without a shield.  So it is not only the child or adult with a pace maker that needs to be careful about their exposure to microwaves, all of us need to be aware that this radiation may affect the heart.

This concept is supported by the early research on microwave radiation.  Cardiovascular problems seem to be common among microwave workers.  In a previous pick of the week (#22:  A Very Important Symposium), Healer (1970) stated that:

“In the interest of occupational hygiene, many Soviet investigators (and at least one U.S. researcher) have recommended that cardiovascular abnormalities be used as screening criteria to exclude people from occupations involving radio-frequency exposures.”

This week’s “Pick of the Week 24” supports the statement above.  It is a study, also published in 1970, documenting cardiovascular changes among microwave workers.

Glotova, KV, Sadchikova MN.  1970.  Development and clinical course of cardiovascular changes after chronic exposure to microwave irradiation, Effect of Microwave Irradiation, Arlington, VA, Joint Publication Research Service, (JPRS 51238), 3 pp. Click here to download pdf of study.

The authors of this publication were with the Institute of Labor Hygiene and Occupational Diseases, USSR Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow.  This is just one in a series of study from the Soviet Union that examines the effect of microwave radiation on the nervous and cardiovascular system.  My comments are in square brackets [ ].

The purpose of this report was “to describe the nature, severity, and clinical course of the cardiovascular changes that follow chronic exposure to microwave irradiation. This information was derived from long-term [3 to 6 years] clinical observations on 130 patients. The data pertain to 105 (90 males and 15 females) patients. Those with chronic tonsillitis, organic neurologic lesions, and cranial trauma were excluded.”

The patients had been working with microwaves in the one-centimeter range waves for at least 5 years and were exposed to fairly intense levels especially in the early years (at and below several milliW/cm²).  Intensities above 1 mW/cm² would now be considered high exposure.

Subjects were placed into two groups.  Subjects in group one had asthenia (weakness and low energy), and complained of headache, fatigue, insomnia and pains in the heart region.  A number of these persons had arterial hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate).

Subjects in group two complained of fatigue, irritability, headaches, nausea, and vertigo.  Some experienced autonomic-vascular crises with severe headaches, chills, tremor, loss of consciousness, pallor or reddening of the face, constricting pain in the heart, labored breathing followed by great weakness.  Subjects in this group were more likely to experience tachycardia  (a rapid heart rate) and high blood pressure, autonomic-vascular dysfunction and hypothalamic insufficiency.  The hypothalamus, a small portion of the brain just above the brain stem, links the nervous system to the endocrine system and controls body temperature, hunger, thirst, fatigue, sleep and circadian cycles. A hypothalamic insufficiency could affect any of these functions.

The authors concluded the following:

“Thus, long-term observations showed that the nature and intensity of the cardiovascular reactions to prolonged exposure to microwaves are closely related to neurologic changes, especially those in the autonomic nervous system. They also vary with the individual. Some exhibit for a long time only mild asthenic symptoms with sinus bradycardia and arterial hypotension with no signs of general or regional hemodynamic disturbances.

Others develop autonomic-vascular dysfunction, often with symptoms of hypothalamic insufficiency and angiospasm [spasmodic contraction of the blood vessels with increase in blood pressure] which sometimes impair the cerebral [brain] and coronal [heart] circulation.”

********

The early literature showing cardiovascular dysfunction among microwave workers, our study showing heart rate irregularities with pulsed microwave exposure at a fraction of international microwave exposure guidelines; the complaints of electrically hypersensitive individuals of heart irregularities; student complaints of heart flutters and a racing heart; and the increase in the rate of sudden cardiac arrest among young people to the point that schools are installing defibrillators cannot be ignored.

Just as workers ought to be screened if they are going to work with microwave radiation,students ought to be to screened each year at school to ensure that they do not have an underlying heart condition that may be exacerbated with WiFi exposure.

A heart flutter may be an early warning that something more serious can happen.  Anyone who experiences a rapid or irregular heart rate that comes on suddenly with mild or no physical exertion when they are exposed to wireless technology should heed the warning, minimize their exposure as quickly as possible and visit a cardiologist.

February 24, 2011.  The Defense Intelligence Agency of the United States released a document referenced below that had a security classification as “confidential” and has since been “unclassified”.  This document may help us better understand why the U.S. military is interested in opposing a more protective guideline for microwave radiation.

Adams, R.L. and R.A. Williams.  1976.  Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation (Radiowaves and Microwaves) – Eurasian Communist Countries (U). Prepared by U.S. Army Medical Intelligence and Information Agency Office of the Surgeon General and was released by the Defense Intelligence Agency.  34 pp.  Unclassified.

Abstract:   This study was undertaken to provide a review and evaluation of the current Eurasian Communist country state-of-the-art in the area of the effects of radiowaves and microwaves. It generally covers the 1968-1975 period. The major topics include discussions of the effects on humans and animals. The study provides information on the genera1 trends of research with special attention to possible military applications. Where appropriate, information on safety standards and research personalities and facilities is provided.

The section dealing with biological significance of radiowaves and microwaves include the following topics for which there is considerable research:  blood, cardiovascular system, cells, central nervous system, digestive system, glands, metabolism, reproduction, visual systems, internal sound perception as well as miscellaneous effects.

There are two disturbing paragraphs in this document that clearly indicate the U.S. military’s perspective opposing more stringent guidelines for microwave radiation.

“If the more advanced nations of the West are strict in the enforcement of stringent exposure standards, there could be unfavorable effects on industrial output and military function. The Eurasian Communist countries could, on the other hand, give lip service to strict standards, but allow their military to operate without restriction and thereby gain the advantage in electronic warfare techniques and the development of antipersonnel applications.” [page vii]

“Should subsequent research result in adoption of the Soviet standard by other countries, industries whose practices are based on less stringent safety regulations, could be required to make costly modifications in order to protect workers. Recognition of the 0.01 mW/cm² standard could also limit the application of new technology by making the commercial exploitation of some products unattractive because of increased cost, imposed by the need for additional safeguards.” [page 24]

Note that the “less stringent safety regulations” refers to U.S., Canada, Great Britain and several European countries as well as to the guidelines recommended by ICNIRP and WHO. It seems that the authors of this document value military and commercial financial considerations above worker health. There is little doubt that the U.S. military played a key role preventing safer and more protective U.S. guidelines for microwave radiation.

Microwave weapons are outside the scope of this document, although there is reference to antipersonnel applications of microwave technology including inducing neurological effects, metabolic diseases, heart seizures and neurological pathologies resulting from breaching the blood-brain barrier, as well as intracranial production of sounds and possibly words at very low average power densities.  On page 26, a section dealing with microwave weapons seems to have been removed.

This document clearly reflects the U.S. military’s resistance to lowering the guideline and their distrust of research conducted in the Eastern Block Countries.  That distrust and the power wielded by the U.S. military is largely responsible for the status of the  current guidelines, which fail to protect public and worker health.

Click here to down load this document as a pdf (1.8 MB).

February 23, 2011.  Janet Healer reviewed studies of people occupationally exposed to radio frequency radiation.  Below are some excerpts from her document presented at the “Biological Effects and Health Implications of Microwave Radiation” symposium.  These are direct quotes with the numbered citations removed and my comments provided in square [ ] brackets.  I have tried to restrict quotes to studies that were conducted at or below our current guidelines of 1 mW/cm², although in many instances exact exposure conditions are not provided.  Emphasis added.  Link to proceedings is available at the end of this document.

1.  page 90.  “There is increasing evidence that radio-frequency radiations can affect biological organisms, even at relatively low intensities, particularly under conditions of chronic exposure [WiFi in schools, offices and homes for example]. A substantial number of observations have been made at intensity levels below those presently accepted as tolerable for continuous exposure in the United States and most of Western Europe. To date, the deleterious effect of radio-frequency fields, particularly of microwaves, at relatively high intensities, e.g., 50 mW/cm² or greater, has been recognized and attributed to heating. However, biological hazards may exist at lower levels, extending well below 10 mW/cm², and effects at both high and low intensities may be attributable to more complex modes of interaction. At low intensities effects may be subtle, impairing performance; chronic, affecting general mental and physical health and longevity; and may also be mutagenic, affecting succeeding generations.”

2. page 91:  “. . . the Moscow Institute conducted a 10-year study of over 1000 individuals exposed in various occupations over periods from months to as long as 20 years. The study included investigation of symptoms associated with chronic, long-term low-level exposures that “do not produce a thermal effect.” Effects of various frequency bands were compared from below the high-frequency (HF) [3 to 30 MHz] band up through the superhigh frequency (SHF) [3 to 30 GHz, wavelength 1 to 10 cm] band. A large portion of the work was done in the centimeter range with reported exposure intensities of 1 mW/cm² and below [note 1 mW/cm² is the current guideline in the U.S., Canada, and is recommended by both ICNIRP and the World Health Organization].  Even at these low intensities, systematic, long-term exposures were reported to produce symptoms. Similar observations have been made at these and lower frequencies extending into the ELF [extremely low frequency] region.

3.  page 92: “The symptomatology associated, in the Soviet literature, with prolonged exposure most commonly includes headache, increased fatigability, diminished intellectual capabilities, dullness, partial loss of memory, decreased sexual ability, irritability, sleepiness and insomnia, emotional instability, sweating, and hypotension. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) and pains in the chest region are also reported. [Note:  these are similar to symptoms of electrohypersensitivity].  Symptoms of disturbance of the vegetative nervous system including sinus arrhythmias, a tendency toward bradycardia [slowed heart beat], and other vagotonic changes are common observations.” [Note:  vagotonic changes refer to over excitation of the vagus nerve--a nerve that supplies the throat, voice box, lung, heart, and stomach--adversely affecting function of the blood vessels, stomach, and muscles resulting in dizziness, sweating, constipation, and pain].

4.  page 92: “The most commonly reported objective physiological changes [indicating that these symptoms are NOT psychological] are neural, cardiovascular, blood compositions, and endocrine functions.”

5.  page 92: “At low intensities, neural changes, like other reported biological shifts, are typically functional, are not accompanied by distinct pathological change, and disappear after the subject is removed from the radiation environment. Nervous system response is expressed in the electroencephalogram (EEG) and by altered response times. Commonly, responses are characterized by initial excitation followed by subsequent inhibition.”

6.  page 93: “Various biochemical, neurohumoral and metabolic disruptions have been observed which can affect neural and other body functions. Changes in histamine [leading to inflammation] in the blood (generally increases) have been reported. Decreased cholinesterase [enzyme affecting nervous system and immune system] levels are frequently reported in exposed people and also in animals where they have been observed in connection with altered neural response. EEG [brain wave activity] changes have been observed in some occupationally exposed people at microwave and lower frequencies. These changes are reported to be early occurring and often appear before other changes are detectable in the organisms. They are frequently reported to persist after the cessation of irradiation.

7. page 93: They [Czechoslovakian scientists] regard EEG shifts as a kind of early-warning system for detection of organism response to radio frequency radiation on a very subtle level.

8. page 94: “Numerous Soviet studies cite cardiovascular disturbances which they widely regard as the predominant vegetative response to radio-frequency irradiation. In general, cardiovascular responses are characterized by hypotension, dystonia [neurological movement disorder causing sustained muscles contractions leading to twisting or repetitive movements of the body], and vagotonic reactions. Electrocardiographic (EKG) studies of exposed people and of animals, report a predominance of bradycardia, arrhythmia, and particularly sinus arrhythmias. Depressed intracardial conduction, commonly intraventricular, and lowered EKG waves, particularly T-waves, are also reported. Shifts are reported more often in persons with long histories of occupational exposure. Some examinations suggest a heightened susceptibility of persons with predisposition to, or a history of, cardiovascular disease. In the interest of occupational hygiene, many Soviet investigators (and at least one U.S. researcher) have recommended that cardiovascular abnormalities be used as screening criteria to exclude people from occupations involving radio-frequency exposures. [Note that we have anecdotal evidence that children in schools with WiFi or with WiFi in their home experience a racing or irregular heart beat that normalizes when they are not exposed.]

9. page 94: “An extensive examination program was conducted by the Institute of Labor Hygiene and Occupational Diseases, Moscow, involving over 500 individuals, periodically exposed for periods up to approximately10 years to cm and longer wave radiations at low intensities (e.g., below 1 mW/cm², and up to several mW/cm²). This program revealed a variety of cardiovascular shifts predominant among which were bradycardia and vascular hypotension [low blood pressure]. Differences in responses to acute exposures of higher intensities and longer term chronic exposures at lower intensities were noted. Although these effects are generally reported to be reversible, a few exceptions are noted for certain individuals chronically exposed over many years, who showed pronounced pathological conditions.”

10. page 94: “In the blood, alterations have been reported in the protein fractions, ions, histamine content, hormone and enzyme levels, and immunity factors, but most frequently reported are changes in cellular composition.”

11 page 94: “Increased thyroid gland activity and sometimes enlargement is the most commonly reported endocrine response of exposed people. Adrenal changes are also reported.”

12. page 94: “A few occupational studies have suggested possible disturbances in some reproductive system functions. Several foreign low-intensity animal studies report reproductive system disturbances and cases of adverse effects on progeny, although contradictory evidence has also been reported. Of particular significance are possible genetic changes which might occur in large populations over long periods of time. Very little genetic data exists, although one U.S. study suggested a possible relationship between paternal radar exposure and mongoloidism.

13. page 94: “A 1967 Polish paper discussing ophthalmological aspects of safety standards for workers during operation of electromagnetic-field generators in military installations, indicates concern for workers with some eye ailments when working in microwave ‘fields as low as 0.01 mW/cm².” [Note: This value is 1% of the current WHO guideline!]

14.  page 94. “There is general agreement among Soviet and Eastern European investigators that systematic chronic exposure to low-intensity radiations (around 10 mW/cm² and lower) can have an adverse effect on health. Their standards are more restrictive than those of the United States by several orders of magnitude (e.g., 0.01 mW/cm² for continuous daily microwave exposure). Furthermore, separate standards exist for various frequency ranges below the microwave region (e.g., 60 kHz-30 MHz, and 30-300 MHz). In Czechoslovakia maximum permissible exposures distinguish between pulsed and continuous-wave radiations and are more restrictive for the pulsed case (0.025 mW/cm² vs 0.01 mW/cm²).” [Note:  WiFi and mobile phones use the more harmful pulsed radiation.]

15. page 95: “In summary, considerable investment of time, money and talent have been made in foreign programs to study the effects of low-intensity occupational radio-frequency exposures in man. These studies have resulted in the accumulation of a large body of research data, which in aggregate cannot be ignored even though in many details it must be substantiated.” [Note:  So why has it been ignored and why are federal and international health authorities denying that a problem exists below the thermal guidelines currently at 1 mW/cm² in many countries?]

A total of 119 references were cited.

Can anyone guess when this was published?  Would you believe 41 years ago in 1970!!!

Cleary, S.F.  (Editor).  1970.  Biological Effects and Health Implications of Microwave Radiation, Symposium Proceedings, Richmond Virginia, September 17-19, 1969. Sponsored by Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University with the support of Bureau of Radiological Health, U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Public Health Service, Environmental Health Service.  275 pp.

Click here to download this document as a searchable pdf (7.1 MB).

This was a very important symposium with more than 30 additional papers presented.  The panel discussions alone are illuminating.

CONTENTS

1. Preface

2. Chairman’s Remarks, Stephen F. Cleary

3. Welcome, William T. Ham

4. Introductory Comments, Stephen F. Cleary

5. Federal Responsibility in Radiological Health, John J. Hanlon

6. Physical Characteristics of Microwave and Other Radio Frequency Radiation, Joseph H. Yogelman

7. Interaction of Microwave and Radio Frequency Radiation With Biological Systems, Herman P. Schwan

8. Heat Stress Due to R. F. Radiation, William W. Mumford

9. Biological Effects of Microwave Exposure, Sol M. Michaelson

10. Thermal and Nonthermal Cataractogenesis by Microwaves, H. D. Baillie

11. Studies of Biological Hazards from High-Power HF Band Transmitters, G. C. Henny, M. Tansy, A. R. Kall, H. M. Watts, and F. Campellone

12. Nonuniform Biophysical Heating with Microwaves, R. S. Pozos, A. W. Richardson, and H. M. Kaplan

13. Experimental Microwave Cataract: A Review, Russell L. Carpenter

14. Clinical Microwave Cataracts, M. M. Zaret, I. T. Kaplan, and A. M. Kay

15. The Dissipation of Microwaves as Heat in the Eye, H. D. Baillie, A. G. Heaton, and D. K. Pal

16. Review of Studies of People Occupationally Exposed to Radio Frequency Radiation, Janet Healer

17. Interaction of Microwave and Radio Frequency Radiation with Molecular Systems, Paul O. Vogelhut

18. Effects of Microwaves on Optical Activity, G. L. Rehnberg, A. A. Moghissi, and E. W. Pepper

19. Studies on the Effects of 2450 MHz Microwaves on Human Immunoglobulin G 104 V, G. P. Kamat and D. E. fanes

20. Molecular Mechanisms for Microwave Absorption in Biological Systems, K. H. Illinger

21. Cellular Effects of Microwave Radiation, John H. Heller

22. Effects of Microwave Radiation on Lens Epithelial Cells (Summary), C. A. Van Ummersen and F. C. Cogan

23. Effects of 2450 MHz Microwave Radiation on Cultivated Rat Kangaroo Cells 123, K. T. S. Yao and M. M. Jiles

24. Effects of Microwave and Radio Frequency Energy on the Central Nervous System, Allan H. Frey

25. Clinical and Hygienic Aspects of Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields, Christopher H. Dodge

26. The Neural and Hormonal Response to Microwave Stimulation of Peripheral Nerves, Robert D. McAfee

27. Behavioral Effects of Low Level Microwave Irradiation in the Closed-Space Situation, D. R. Justesen and N. W. King

28. Behavioral Effects of Low Intensity UHF Radiation, Susan F. Korbel

29. Bird Feathers as Sensory Detectors of Microwave Fields, ]. A. Tanner and C. Romero-Sierra

30. Maximum Admissible Values of HF and UHF Electromagnetic Radiation at Work Places in Czechoslovakia, Karel Marha

31. Quantifying Hazardous Microwave Fields: Analysis, Paul F. Wacker

32. Quantifying Hazardous Microwave Fields: Practical Considerations, Ronald R. Bowman

33. Microwave Leakage Instrumentation, Paul W. Crapuchettes

34. Microwave Hazard Control in Design, W. A. Geoffrey Yoss

35. Radio Frequency Radiation Hazards to Personnel at Frequencies Below 30 MHz, S. ]. Rogers

36. Panel Discussion I: Microwave Measurements Methods and Standards for Biological Research and Hazards Surveys, S. W. Rosenthal (Moderator), A. Frey, F. Lemaster, R. R. Bowman, H. Rechen, ]. Osepchuck, and S. Michaelson

37. Panel Discussion II: Future Needs in Research on the Biological Effects of Microwave and R. F. Radiation, A. M. Burner (Moderator), N. Telles, S. Michaelson, A. Frey, E. Alpen, R. L. Carpenter, C. Susskind, and]. H. Heller

38. Index

February 22, 2011.  A workshop sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, the Naval Medical Research and Development Command, and the Bureau of Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration was held at the University of Maryland in 1977.  The Proceedings of that workshop are available here as a pdf document.

Taylor, L.S. and A.Y. Cheung (editors).  The Physical Basis of Electromagnetic Interactions with Biological Systems.  Proceedings of a workshop held at the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, June 15-17, 1977.  410 pp.

Foreward

This volume contains the proceedings of a Workshop on the Physical Basis of Electromagnetic Interactions with Biological Systems held at the University of Maryland on June 15-17, 1977. The workshop was sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, the Naval Medical Research and Development Command and the Bureau of Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration.

The wide application of industrial, commercial and military devices and systems which radiate frequencies in the radiofrequency and microwave portion of the electromagnetic spectrum plus numerous only partially understood indications of microwave effects upon living organisms have raised important questions of the physical basis of the interactions of electromagnetic fields with biological systems. These questions must be answered if the development of regulatory standards and of methods and techniques for controlling radiofrequency and microwave exposure is to be achieved. The same questions must be answered in connection with present and proposed therapeutic applications of these waves. The rapid increase in the use of these frequencies makes these questions matters of imperative concern, particularly in view of the possibilities of cumulative or delayed effects of exposure.

The study of electromagnetic interactions with biological systems brings together diverse specialties in the fields of physics, engineering, biology and chemistry in a highly interdependent way. Progress towards practical solutions of the problems involved will depend upon the development of experimental techniques and instruments and of a sufficient general theoretical base to inform and react with the experimental investigations. The purpose of the Workshop on the Physical Basis of Electromagnetic Interactions with Biological Systems was to bring together the leading investigators in the field to present the results of recent research, to determine the present status of the field and the priority of significant problem areas, and to critically evaluate conflicting theoretical interpretations and experimental techniques. These proceedings contain the formal papers prepared by the invited speakers plus a number of contributed papers given by other participants in the Workshop. Transcriptions were made of the discussion periods following each paper and edited versions of these are included; the editors bear the responsibility for any misquotation.

Table of Contents

1. Survey of Microwave and Radiofrequency Biological Effects and Mechanisms. S. Cleary.

2. Molecular Absorption of Non-Ionizing Radiation in Biological Systems. K. D. Straub.

3. Millimeter Wave and Far-Infrared Absorption in Biological Systems. K. Illinger.

4 Cooperative Quantum Mechanical Mechanisms for Resonance Absorption of Non-Ionizing Radiation. I. Grodsky.

5. Basics of ELF Fields and Biosphere Effects. O. Schmitt.

6. Possible Mechanisms of Weak Electromagnetic Field Coupling in Brain Tissue. s. M. Bawin, A. Sheppard and W. R. Adey.

7. Classical Theory of Microwave Interactions with Biological Systems. H. Schwan.

8. Determination of Bound Water in Biological Materials from Dielectric Measurements. E. Grant.

9. Interfacial and Intracellular Water: Expected Anomalies in Dielectric Properties. J. S. Clegg and W. Drost-Hansen.

10. Microwave Frequencies and the Structure of the Double Helix. E. Prohofsky.

11. Techniques of Raman Spectroscopy Applied to Study the Effects of Microwaves upon Synthetic and Naturally Occurring Lipid Membranes. J. P. Sheridan, R. Priest, P. Schoen, and J. M. Schnur.

12. Evanescent Waves and Waves in Absorbing Media. L. Felsen.

13. Microwave and RF Dosimetry. c. K. Chou and A. w. Guy.

14. Electric Field Measurements Within Biological Media. A. Cheung.

15. Some Recent Results on Deposition of Electromagnetic Energy in Animals and Models of Man. o. P. Gandhi and M. J. Hagmann.

16. Thermometry in Strong Electromagnetic Fields. T. c. Cetas.

17. Non-Perturbing Microprobes for Measurements in Electromagnetic Fields. A. Deficis and A. Priou.

18. The Viscometric Thermometer. c. A. Cain, M. M. Chen, K. L. Lam and J. Mullin.

19. Microwave Thermography: Physical Principles and Diagnostic Applications. P. C. Myers and A. H. Barrett.

20. Design and Standardization of Exposure Systems for RF and Microwave Experimentation. M. L. Swicord and H. S. Ho.

21. Calibration Techniques for Microwave and RF Exposure Measurement Devices. H. I. Bassen.

22. Workshop Summary: S. Cleary.

23. Panel Discussion – Principal Speakers and Participants.

24. Workshop Attendees.

February 21, 2011.  The early research on biological effects of microwave radiation between 1940-1960 is reviewed by Cook and colleagues and is available here for download as a pdf.

Cook, H.J., N.H. Steneck, A.J. Vander, and G.L. Kane. 1980.  Early Research on the Biological Effects of Microwave Radiation: 1940-1960.  Annals of Science 37:323-351.

Summary

Two overriding considerations shaped the development of early research on the biological effects of microwave radiation-possible medical application (diathermy) and uncertainty about the hazards of exposure to radar. Reports in the late 1940s and early 1950s of hazards resulting from microwave exposure led to the near abandonment of medical research related to microwave diathermy at the same time that military and industrial concern over hazards grew, culminating in the massive research effort known as ‘the Tri-Service program’ (1957-1960). Both the early focus on medical application and the later search for hazards played important roles in dictating how this field of research developed as a science.

Contents

I. Introduction . . . 323
2. Background, 1885-1940: early work on short-waves and therapy . . . 324
3. Early debates over thermal and nonthermal effects. . . 326
4. The war years and after,1940-1953: military interests in harmful effects . . . 330
5. Return to therapeutic interest . . . 332
6. The discovery of medical hazards  . . .  333
7. Renewed concern, 1903-1957; worries of industry . . . 335
8. The military response to industrial concern . . . 337
9. The Tri-Service era:’1907-1960 . . . 341
10. Safety standards and the ending of the Tri-Service program . . . 345
11. Conclusions . . . 348

February 20, 2011.  Thirty years ago, James Kinn with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Elliot Postow with Naval Medical R&D Command compiled a list of 3627 publications on the biological effects of electromagnetic radiation from 1 to 100 GHz.  This 574 page document has been scanned and converted into a searchable pdf document that is available here.  The references in this document are listed by title and author.

ABSTRACT

Considerable research effort has been made into the biological effects of electromagnetic radiation over the frequency range of 0-100 GHz. This work intensified since 1966 when occupational exposure guidelines were made by the American Standards Institute – C95.9. During this period and especially in the last several years it has become clear that a cumulative bibliography of peer reviewed publications reporting this research was needed.

This publication lists 3627 articles published in world literature dealing with the biological effects of electromagnetic radiation over the frequency range of 0-100 GHz. The contents have been compiled from the data bases of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Navy Department. The bibliography covers the published work that was available to March 1980.

December 2, 2010.  Pick of the Week #18:  Effect of Microwaves on the Central Nervous System, German Translation, 1965.

Bergman, W.  1965.  The effect of Microwaves on the Central Nervous System.  Translation from the German for Research and Scientific Laboratory, Ford Motor Company by the Technical Library Research Service.  82 pp.

ABSTRACT

The autonomic nervous system is affected by the microwaves of the centimeter wavelength band. These waves affect circulation, respiration, temperature control, water balance, albumin and sugar concentration in the cerebro-spinal fluid, hydrogen ion concentration, EEG. GSR, sleep, conscious awareness, etc. Depending on the applied dosage, these waves stimulate the sympathetic or parasympathetic system. Very small dosages produce analgesic effects; however, very large dosages are fatal. An undamped or modulated frequency is more effective than damped waves. The biological effect of these waves results from the resonance absorption in the ganglia. There are indications that only higher harmonics, and not the fundamental frequency, produce biological effects. The shielding of the test subject by metal screens increases these effects; however, magnetic fields remove them. Higher harmonics producing these biological effects have physical properties which are similar to those of the bio-electrical energy generated by the human body. The mechanism of hypnosis is explained by the transmission of this energy.

Contents

Introduction

I.    Influencing the central nervous system by short waves as well as by high-frequency currents

1.    Influence on the motor and sensory nerves

2.    Influence on circulation and respiration

3.    Influence on the EEG

4.    Influence on temperature control

5.    Influence on the water balance

6.    Influence on abduction phenomena

7.    Influence on sleep

8.    Influence on conscious awareness

9.    General influence of the short electromagnetic waves on the central nervous system

10.    Chemical-physical effects of short waves

11.    Interpretation of the process with different forms of application of short waves

12. Dosage

13.    Summary

II.    Electrical processes in the human body and its environment

1.    Electrical phenomena in the human body as well as in its environment as a function of the emotional state

2.    Electrical phenomena in the human body and its environment during muscular contractions

3.    Amplification of electrical phenomena in the human body and its environment by artificial means

4.    Resonance phenomena in the transmission of nerve energy in the human body and its environment

5.    Physical characteristics of the energy generated by the human body as well as by various inorganic and organic compounds

6.    Summary

III.    Absorption of electromagnetic energy in ganglion cells

1.    Relation of absorption to the emotional state of the person

2.     Resonance absorption

3.    Relation of absorption to the frequency of the high-frequency energy acting on the human body

4.    “Filtration” of the higher harmonic of the fundamental frequency influencing the ganglion cells

5.    Summary

Bibliography

INTRODUCTION

The present study demonstrates that short electromagnetic waves can have an extensive influence on the central nervous system. This involves a direct influence of high-frequency energy on the autonomic nervous system and the influence on the somatic nervous system takes place by the control of its readiness to function from the vegetative sphere. Such a process otherwise takes place only under hypnosis.

The human body has been found to be the generator of a wave energy which is propagated in the surrounding atmosphere in the form of electromagnetic waves. In its transmission to other persons, this energy influences the central nervous system in a manner similar to short electromagnetic waves. The hypothesis used for an explanation of suggestion is based on the transmission of this wave energy. It has been found that neither the entire electromagnetic field of a short-wave transmitter nor the entire electrical field in the environment of the human body can influence the central nervous system. Rather, the central nervous system is influenced by certain wave components contained in the electromagnetic waves generated by a short-wave transmitter as well as in the electrical field surrounding the human body. Since these Wave components of short electromagnetic waves as well as those of the electrical field around the human body exhibit similar physical characteristics and exert similar influences on the central nervous system, it can be assumed that the same energy is involved in both cases. The possibility results to produce the energy which is effective in hypnosis by engineering methods. In this connection, the development of the instruments which are to produce this energy is to be based on guidelines which differ fundamentally from those presently utilized in the development of transmitters for short-wave diathermy.

In short-wave diathermy as it is used today, the heat generated in the patient is primarily utilized. The development of short-wave transmitters consequently followed the design of highly efficient instruments which produced a maximum heat generation in the patient. It was found that heat produces an effect opposite to that of the energy which influences the central nervous system. Consequently, the effective action of the energy influencing the central nervous system is considerably reduced by the heat formed in the patient. A further attenuation of the energy influencing the central nervous system was produced by the introduction of oscillators which generate undamped oscillations. For undamped waves produce much less prominent reactions of the central nervous system than damped waves or pulses. The introduction of transmitters built on this basis for short-wave diathermy together with the new dosage method which I have proposed and which is based on the principle of measuring the reaction of the autonomic nervous system to the electromagnetic energy absorbed by the body. will provide the practising physician with a new effective instrument permitting the treatment of patients by direct stimulation of the central nervous system.

November 8, 2010. Most of the documents in Zory’s Archive are concerned with the biological effects of radio frequency radiation. This week we have one that focuses on the biological effects of low frequency electric and magnetic fields.

Nair, I, MG Morgan, and HK Florig. 1989. Biological Effects of Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields, Background paper as part of OTA’s assessment of Electric Power Wheeling and Dealing:  Technological Considerations for Increasing Competition, Department of Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, Congress of the United States, Office of Technology Assessment, 110 pp.

Introduction and Overview

Electric and magnetic fields produced by electric power systems have recently been added to the list of environmental agents that are a potential threat to public health. This paper describes peoples’ exposures to fields from power systems and other sources (Section 2), reviews existing scientific evidence on the biological effects of these fields (Sections 3 through 7), presents a history of research support and of regulatory activity (Sections 8 and 9 ), and discusses problems and alternatives in regulatory action (Section 10).

The electric power that is used in our homes, offices and factories uses AC or alternating current.  This is in contrast to the DC or direct current that is produced by batteries. An alternating current does not flow steadily in one direction. It alternates back and forth. The power used in North America alternates back and forth 60 times each second. This is called 60 hertz (Hz) power. In Europe and some other parts of the world the frequency of electric power is 50 hertz rather than 60 Hz.

There are electric and magnetic fields wherever there is electric power. This means that there are fields associated with large and small powerlines, wiring and lighting in homes and places of work, and all electrical appliances. These fields are created by the electric charges that are pumped into the power system by electric power generating stations. Electric fields arise from the amount of that charge and magnetic fields result from the motion of that charge. Taken together, these fields are often referred to as electromagnetic fields. The electric and magnetic fields created by power systems oscillate with the current. That is why fields around power systems are called power-frequency or 60 hertz fields. A more complete description of the electromagnetic fields from power systems is presented in Section 2.

Public concerns about power-frequency fields first emerged in the late 1960s as power companies turned increasingly to extra high voltage (EHV) transmission lines to handle large increases in electricity use. EHV lines carry electric power with lower energy losses and with smaller land usage than multiple lower-voltage lines with the same power-delivery capacity. Public attention to EHV transmission lines focused first on the aesthetic impact of their large towers, on the aesthetic and ecological impacts at their rights-at-way, and on various nuisance effects created by their strong electric fields. These nuisance effects include audible noise, TV/radio interference, and induced shocks that can occur when a person standing beneath an EHV line touches a large ungrounded metal object such as a truck or farm vehicle.  By the early 1970s, the American National Standards Institute had issued voluntary standards to address nuisance effects. The first evidence that power-frequency fields might have a direct effect on human health appeared in 1972 when Soviet investigators reported that workers in Soviet EHV switchyards suffered from a number of nonspecific ailments [Korobkova 72]. Although these reports were greeted with much skepticism by western scientists, they served to stimulate public concern. By the mid-seventies, health effects had become a central issue in transmission line siting hearings in several states.

There are two reasons why conventional wisdom has until recently held that the fields associated with power systems could pose no threat to human health. First, there is no significant transfer of energy from power-frequency fields to biological systems. Unlike X-rays (i.e. ionizing radiation), powerfrequency fields do not break chemical bonds. Unlike microwaves (i.e. non-ionizing radiation), powerfrequency fields cannot cause significant tissue heating. Second, all cells in the body maintain large natural electric fields across their outer membranes. These naturally occurring fields are at least 100 times more intense than those that can be induced by exposure to common power-frequency fields.

However, despite the low energy of power-frequency fields and the very small perturbations that they make to the natural fields within the body, studies over the last fifteen years have demonstrated unequivocally that under certain circumstances, the membranes of cells can be sensitive to even fairly weak externally imposed low frequency electromagnetic fields. Extremely small signal changes can trigger major biochemical responses critical to the functioning of the cell [Adey 81, Adey 84, Adey 87].  This should perhaps have come as no surprise, as cells, especially those in the nervous system, make use of complex electrochemical processes in their normal function. The ability of some animals including eels, sharks, and pigeons to detect extremely weak ELF fields and use them for homing and finding prey clearly demonstrates that at least some specialized cells can be exquisitely sensitive to such fields [Fessard 74, Gould 82]. Among the responses demonstrated in laboratory studies using animal cells and tissue are:

• modulation of ion flows;

• interference with DNA synthesis and RNA transcription;

• interaction with the response of normal cells to various agents and biochemicals such as hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors;

• interaction with the biochemical kinetics of cancer cells.

Even when effects are demonstrated consistently on the cellular level in laboratory experiments, it is hard to predict whether and how they will affect the whole organism. Processes at the individual cell level are integrated through complex mechanisms in the animal. When a process in the cell is lightly perturbed by an external agent such as an ELF field, other processes may compensate for it so that there is no overall disturbance to the organism. Some perturbations may be within the ranges of disturbances that a system can experience and still function properly. This difficulty in extrapolating cellular level effects to predict the existence or severity of possible public health effects, together with the absence of any large-scale and obvious public health effect associated with electrification, are two arguments advanced during the last decade in support of the claim that there is no need for concern about possible public health effects from exposure to power-frequency fields.

Another problem in deducing possible health effects from cellular level effects has been the lack of a theoretical model to explain and understand the detailed mechanism of interaction. ELF fields affect the cell via the cell membrane. Cell membrane biology is still in its infancy although this area of molecular biology has made great strides in the past few years. Until recently, there was not enough understanding to even advance hypotheses on the potential mechanisms by which ELF fields may cause significant perturbations in cell and organ functions. Hypotheses are now being advanced but are still at a speculative stage [Adey 86, Smith 87, Liboff 86].

As we discuss in Section 3, findings at the cellular level display considerable complexity including resonant responses (or, “windows”) in frequency and field strength, complex time dependencies, and dependence on the ambient DC magnetic field created by the earth. For these reasons, ELF fields appear to be an agent to which there is no known analog. Many lessons learned from environmental hazards such as chemical agents (PCB, vinyl chloride, benzene, etc.) or physical agents (ionizing radiation, asbestos etc.) may not directly apply to ELF fields. This is because in the case of fields it is not yet clear what measures of exposure or “dose” are relevant. In contrast to more familiar environmental agents where “if some of it is bad, more of it is worse”, it may not be safe to assume that if ELF field exposure leads to health risks, exposure to stronger fields or exposure for longer periods is worse than exposure to weaker fields or brief periods.

In addition to cellular studies, whole animal and human experiments have examined five general categories of effects:

1. General effects such as detection, avoidance and behavior response and development and learning of animals, and moods of humans;

2. Effects on externally measured physical parameters such as growth and birthweight, respiration, heartbeat rate, and temperature rhythms;

3. Effects on specific biochemicals such as hormones that are responsible for the maintenance, regulation and control of general physiological and psychological functions; for response to environmental stressors; for growth and development; and, for triggering special responses such as sexual function, and fetal and newborn nourishment;

4. Effects on circadian rhythms of animals and humans, and,

5. Effects in the epidemiology of cancer, particularly leukemia and brain cancer.

Several authors and scientific advisory panels have reviewed the effects literature [Adey 86, Adey 87, AIBS 85, Carstensen 87, Florida 85, Grandolfo 86, lee 86, NYSPlP 87, Sheppard 83, West 86, WHO 84].  In summary, the results are complex and inconclusive. There have been many “negative” experiments, that is, experiments that have looked for effects but not found any difference between biological systems that have been exposed to fields and those that have not. However, the growing number of positive findings have now clearly demonstrated that under specific circumstances even weak low-frequency electromagnetic fields can produce substantial changes at the cellular level, and in a few experimental settings, effects have also been demonstrated at the level of the whole animal.

Epidemiological evidence, while controversial and subject to a variety of criticisms, is beginning to provide a basis for concern about risks from chronic exposure. Some observers find this epidemiological evidence more persuasive in light of the clear evidence of effects that is available at the cellular level, but others insist on treating the evidence from these two areas as separate.

As recently as a few years ago, scientists were making categorical statements that on the basis of all available evidence there are no health risks from human exposure to power-frequency fields. In our view, the emerging evidence no longer allows one to categorically assert that there are no risks. But it does not provide a basis for asserting that there is a significant risk.

If exposure to fields does turn out to pose a health risk, it is unlikely that high voltage transmission lines will be the only sources of concern. Power-frequency fields are also produced by distribution lines, wall wiring, appliances, and lighting fixtures. These non-transmission sources are much more common· than transmission lines and could play a far greater role than transmission lines in any public health problem.

Commonwealth Club 11-18-10. Panel I – Magda Havas, PhD from ElectromagneticHealth.Org on Vimeo.