Groups IV

here is currently a great push to bury all power lines. Better safe than sorry? The cost goes up twenty-fold to bury the lines. Then what? Lawyers claiming their clients' cancers were caused by EMFed water? It was bad enough trying to sell a house with power lines nearby when people cared about the ugliness of the view. But try to sell the same house when people are afraid of getting cancer from the ugly lines! In any case, we will have to bury our electrical wires even deeper than our power poles are high if we are to make a significant difference in shielding us from the magnetic fields of power lines.

here is more EMF exposure from radio and TV, and the wiring in our homes and the electrical appliances we use

No one can avoid electromagnetic radiation. It is everywhere. We are constantly exposed to it from light, commercial radio and television transmissions, police 2-way transmissions, walkie-talkies, etc.

It is not very likely that the average person has anything to worry about from power lines cell phones, microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, or Wi-Fi. Most of us do not get that close to power lines to be significantly affected by their EMFs. Our exposure to them, even if they are nearby, is not direct, up close, and constant. The energy emitted by cell phones, cordless phones, and baby monitors (10 milliwatts) is pretty weak. T here is more EMF exposure from radio and TV, and the wiring in our homes and the electrical appliances we use , than from our cell phones or Wi-Fi. No one can avoid electromagnetic radiation. It is everywhere. We are constantly exposed to it from light, commercial radio and television transmissions, police 2-way transmissions, walkie-talkies, etc. Furthermore, "while electrical fields are easily screened, magnetic fields make their way unimpeded through most substances" (Pool, 1990). In fact, it is curious that while fear of EMFs is on the rise so is magnet therapy as a panacea and source of positive energy for the healthful-minded New Ager. 

In 1997, The New England Journal of Medicine published the results of the largest, most detailed study of the relationship between EMFs and cancer ever done. Dr. Martha S. Linet, director of the study, said: "We found no evidence that magnetic field levels in the home increased the risk for childhood leukemia." The study took eight years and involved measuring the exposure to magnetic fields generated by nearby power lines. A group of 638 children under age 15 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia were compared to a group of 620 healthy children. "The researchers measured magnetic fields in all the houses where the children had lived for five years before the discovery of their cancer, as well as in the homes where their mothers lived while pregnant." The study was criticized because it is impossible to know exactly what the EMFs were at the times the mothers or their children were exposed. All measurements must be done after the exposure has taken place and assumptions must be made that the level of EMFs was not substantially different during exposure. It is unlikely, however, anyone except the intellectual descendants of Nazi doctor Joseph Mengele will ever do a control study on humans which systematically controls exposure to EMFs from the moment of conception through early childhood.

An electromagnetic field (also called electromagnetic radiation) is a region in space through which energy passes that has been created by electrically charged particles. EMFs are produced by such things as power lines, electric appliances, radio waves, and microwaves.

 The effects of chronic exposure to environmental electric and magnetic fields (EMF) have been the subject of intensive research leading to no definitive answers (1). Possible risks for childhood and adult leukemia have been acknowledged (1, 2), but many other health outcomes are still under study. Among them are breast cancer (3, 4), neuropsychological disorders (5, 6), and reproductive outcomes (7). An underlying mechanism that could explain all of these potential effects is alteration of melatonin secretion as a result of EMF exposure (8). Melatonin secretion is important in the regulation of circadian rhythms and sleep (9) but could also be involved in the aging process (10), carcinogenesis (11), and reproduction (12).

A decrease in nocturnal melatonin secretion in rodents chronically exposed to EMF has frequently been reported (1, 4). Experiments on humans acutely exposed to EMF for one night have not resulted in reproducible effects on serum melatonin or urinary excretion of its main metabolite, 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (6-OHMS) (1, 4, 13–15). However, recent epidemiologic studies have suggested an effect of chronic EMF exposure on melatonin secretion. Reduced morning excretion of 6-OHMS has been reported in electrical train workers in Switzerland exposed to 20-µT magnetic fields (16) and in US electric utility workers exposed to levels of 0.2 µT with low variability (17). To our knowledge, only one study has evaluated the effect of chronic residential exposure to magnetic fields; it was carried out in Seattle, Washington, among women exposed to mean levels of 0.1 µT (18). This study found an effect of nocturnal magnetic field exposure on morning 6-OHMS excretion among women using beta blockers and other related drugs, leading to the hypothesis of a particular vulnerability among these persons.

In a previous study, several of the authors (P. L., D. G, and S. G.) reported that people living near high-voltage power lines are particularly exposed to power-frequency EMF (19). In this paper, we present the results of an epidemiologic study in which we tested the hypothesis that chronic exposure to 60-Hz EMF emanating from power lines is associated with reduced 6-OHMS urinary excretion in women aged 20–74 years. In addition, we evaluated whether some characteristics of participants known to reduce melatonin secretion, such as age and medication use, could modify the effect of exposure to magnetic fields.

However

However

 Mean age was similar in the two groups: 45.5 years (standard deviation, 11.2) in the group living near the lines and 45.8 years (standard deviation, 12.4) in the group living away from the lines (p = 0.81). Other general characteristics were mostly comparable (table 1). However, women living near the lines were less educated (p = 0.04). Potential risk factors associated with melatonin secretion also were compared (results presented in table 2). Only daylight length during data collection was significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.04); a slightly larger proportion of subjects living near power lines was studied in photoperiods shorter than 12 hours. Interestingly, time between evening and morning urination was similar in the two groups, as was bedtime (p = 0.52; data not shown). Self-reported health status was comparable. In particular, the proportion of subjects having made at least one medical visit in the last year was similar (85 percent in the group near the lines and 79 percent in the control group, p = 0.16), and reasons for consultation were distributed equally in the two groups (data not shown). No subject reported renal or hepatic disease.

Power Lines An enormous amount of electricity is created at power generating stations and sent across the country through wires that carry high voltages. All power lines radiate electromagnetic fields. The question is: how much are the power lines near YOUR home radiating? The amount of EMFs coming from a power line depends on its particular configuration. Power companies know which power line configurations are best for reducing EMFs but most don't feel the evidence supports costly changes in the way they deliver electricity. Substations A substation is an assemblage of circuit breakers, disconnecting switches and transformers designed to substations have been blamed for causing cancer clusters among nearby residents. Paul Brodeur wrote about several such cancer clusters in the July 9, 1990 issue of the New Yorker Magazine. Transformers A key component of a utility's electrical distribution network depends upon numerous, small transformers mounted on power poles. A transformer looks like a small metal trash can, usually cylindrical.

Home Wiring If your home has high EMF readings, it is important to determine the sources of the EMF so that remedial action can be taken, if possible. Many times a particular room will have a higher EMF reading. Check to see if the electricity is coming into the house on the wall outside that room. When this is the case, it is usually a good idea to block off that room and only use it for storage purposes.

Computers Computers are a complicated subject. Know this: EMFs radiate from all sides of the computer. Thus, you must not only be concerned with sitting in front of the monitor but also if you are sitting near a computer or if a computer is operating in a nearby room.

Electric Blankets and Waterbeds Electric blankets create a magnetic field that penetrates about 6-7 inches into the body. Thus it is not surprising that an epidemiological study has linked electric blankets with miscarriages and childhood leukemia. This pioneering work was performed by Dr. Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who originally discovered that magnetic fields were linked to childhood leukemia. Similar health effects have been noted with users of many electric blankets and waterbed heaters will emit EMFs even when turned off.

Electric Clocks Electric clocks have a very high magnetic field, as much as 5 to 10 mG up to three feet away. If you are using a bedside clock, you are probably sleeping in an EMF equivalent to that of a powerline Studies have linked high rates of brain tumors with chronic exposure to magnetic fields, so it is wise to place all clocks and other electrical devices (such as telephones and answering devices) at least 6 feet from your bed.

Additional Radiation Info: Eyeglass frames should ideally be made from plastic with no wires in them, otherwise they can serve as an antenna to focus the radio and cellular phone waves directly into your brain. What EMF Level Is Safe? There's a heated debate as to what electromagnetic field (EMF) level is considered safe. Since the experts have not come to an consensus, you'll have to decide for yourself... Many government and utility documents report the usual ambient level of 60-Hz magnetic field to be 0.5 mG.

Can electromagnetic fields (EMF) from power lines, home wiring, airport and military radar, substations, transformers, computers and appliances cause brain tumors, leukemia, birth defects, miscarriages, chronic fatigue, headaches, cataracts, heart problems, stress. nausea, chest pain, forgetfulness, cancer and other health problems? Numerous studies have produced contradictory results, yet some experts are convinced that the threat is real. Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State University of New York believes it is likely that up to 30% of all childhood cancers come from exposure to EMFs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns "There is reason for concern" and advises prudent avoidance".

Discrete structure

Dynamics of the electromagnetic field In the past, electrically charged objects were thought to produce two types of field associated with their charge property. An electric field is produced when the charge is stationary with respect to an observer measuring the properties of the charge, and a magnetic field (as well as an electric field) is produced when the charge moves (creating an electric current) with respect to this observer. Over time, it was realized that the electric and magnetic fields are better thought of as two parts of a greater whole — the electromagnetic field.

Health and safety The potential health effects of the very low frequency EMFs surrounding power lines and electrical devices are the subject of on-going research and a significant amount of public debate. In workplace environments, where EMF exposures can be up to 10,000 times greater than the average, the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has issued some cautionary advisories but stresses that the data is currently too limited to draw good conclusions.[2] The potential effects of electromagnetic fields on human health vary widely depending on the frequency and intensity of the fields. For more information on the health effects due to specific parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, see the following articles with details of possible dangers (MRI) and some currently unfounded fears (mobile phones): Static electric fields: see Electric shock Static magnetic fields: see MRI/Safety for one of the few applications in which magnetic fields are strong enough to have safety implications Extremely low frequency (ELF): see Power lines/health concerns Radio frequency (RF): see Electromagnetic radiation and health Light: see Laser safety Ultraviolet (UV): see Sunburn Gamma rays: see Gamma ray Mobile telephony: see Mobile phone radiation and health

The World Health Organization, based upon the consensus view of the scientific and medical communities, states that health effects (e.g. headaches) are very unlikely to be caused by cellular phones or their base stations,[2][3] and expects to make recommendations about mobile phones in October 2009.[4] However, some national radiation advisory authorities, including those of Austria,[5] France,[6] Germany,[7] and Sweden[8] recommended to their citizens measures to minimize exposure. Examples of the recommendations are:

Overall health risks Many scientific studies have investigated possible health effects of mobile phone radiations. These studies are occasionally reviewed by some scientific committees to assess overall risks. The most recent assessment was published in 2007 by the European Commission Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR). It concludes from the available research that no significant health effect has been demonstrated from mobile phone radiation at normal exposure levels:

Health hazards of handsets [edit] Radiation absorption Calculated specific absorbed radiation (SAR) distribution in an anatomical model of head next to a 125 mW dipole antenna. Peak SAR is 9.5 W/kg averaged over a 1 mg cube. (USAF/AFRL). Part of the radio waves emitted by a mobile telephone handset are absorbed by the human head. The radio waves emitted by a GSM handset, can have a peak power of 2 watts, and a US analogue phone had a maximum transmit power of 3.6 watts. Other digital mobile technologies, such as CDMA2000 and D-AMPS, use lower output power, typically below 1 watt. The maximum power output from a mobile phone is regulated by the mobile phone standard it is following and by the regulatory agencies in each country.

Mobile phones and cancer In 2006 a large Danish study about the connection between mobile phone use and cancer incidence was published. It followed over 420,000 Danish citizens for 20 years and showed no increased risk of cancer.[29] The German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) consider this report as inconclusive.[3

Health hazards of base stations Another area of worry about effects on the population's health have been the radiation emitted by base stations (the antennas on the surface which communicate with the phones). This is because, in contrast to mobile handsets, it is emitted continuously and is more powerful at close quarters. On the other hand due to the attenuation of power with the square of distance, field intensities drop rapidly with distance away from the base of the antenna. Base station emissions must comply with ICNIRP guidelines of a maximum power density of 4.5 W/m² (450 microwatts/cm2) for 900 MHz and 9 W/m² (900 microwatts/cm2) for 1800 MHz.[56] These guidelines are set for heating, which is the only understood mechanism of electromagnetic fields on biological tissue. The ICNIRP guidelines are distrusted by some.[57]

Occupational health hazards Telecommunication workers who spend time at a short distance from the active equipment, for the purposes of testing, maintenance, installation, etc. may be at risk of much greater exposure than the general population. Many times base stations are not turned off during maintenance, because that would affect the network, so people work near "live" antennas.

Safety standards and licensing In order to protect the population living around base stations and users of mobile handsets, governments and regulatory bodies adopt safety standards, which translate to limits on exposure levels below a certain value. There are many proposed national and international standards, but that of the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) is the most respected one, and has been adopted so far by more than 80 countries. For radio stations, ICNIRP proposes two safety levels: one for occupational exposure, another one for the general population. Currently there are efforts underway to harmonise the different standards in existence.[71]

Microwaves unsafe for baby's milk A number of warnings have been made public, but have been barely noticed. For example, Young Families, the Minnesota Extension Service of the University of Minnesota, published the following in 1989: "Although microwaves heat food quickly, they are not recommended for heating a baby's bottle. The bottle may seem cool to the touch, but the liquid inside may become extremely hot and could burn the baby's mouth and throat. Also, the buildup of steam in a closed container, such as a baby bottle, could cause it to explode. Heating the bottle in a microwave can cause slight changes in the milk. In infant formulas, there may be a loss of some vitamins. In expressed breast milk, some protective properties may be destroyed. Warming a bottle by holding it under tap water, or by setting it in a bowl of warm water, then testing it on your wrist before feeding may take a few minutes longer, but it is much safer." Dr. Lita Lee of Hawaii reported in the December 9, 1989 Lancet:

The Swiss clinical study Dr. Hans Ulrich Hertel, who is now retired, worked as a food scientist for many years with one of the major Swiss food companies that do business on a global scale. A few years ago, he was fired from his job for questioning certain processing procedures that denatured the food. In 1991, he and a Lausanne University professor published a research paper indicating that food cooked in microwave ovens could pose a greater risk to health than food cooked by conventional means. An article also appeared in issue 19 of the Journal Franz Weber in which it was stated that the consumption of food cooked in microwave ovens had cancerous effects on the blood. The research paper itself followed the article. On the cover of the magazine there was a picture of the Grim Reaper holding a microwave oven in one of his hands.

Who invented microwave ovens? The Nazis, for use in their mobile support operations, originally developed microwave "radiomissor" cooking ovens to be used for the invasion of Russia. By being able to utilize electronic equipment for preparation of meals on a mass scale, the logistical problem of cooking fuels would have been eliminated, as well as the convenience of producing edible products in a greatly reduced time-factor. After the war, the Allies discovered medical research done by the Germans on microwave ovens. These documents, along with some working microwave ovens, were transferred to the United States War Department and classified for reference and "further scientific investigation." The Russians had also retrieved some microwave ovens and now have thorough research on their biological effects. As a result, their use was outlawed in the Soviet Union. The Soviets issued an international warning on the health hazards, both biological and environmental, of microwave ovens and similar frequency electronic devices.

Microwave sickness is discovered The Russians did research on thousands of workers who had been exposed to microwaves during the development of radar in the 1950's. Their research showed health problems so serious that the Russians set strict limits of 10 microwatts exposure for workers and one microwatt for civilians. In Robert O. Becker's book, The Body Electric, he described Russian research on the health effects of microwave radiation, which they called "microwave sickness." On page 314, Becker states: "It's [Microwave sickness] first signs are low blood pressure and slow pulse. The later and most common manifestations are chronic excitation of the sympathetic nervous system [stress syndrome] and high blood pressure. This phase also often includes headache, dizziness, eye pain, sleeplessness, irritability, anxiety, stomach pain, nervous tension, inability to concentrate, hair loss, plus an increased incidence of appendicitis, cataracts, reproductive problems, and cancer. The chronic symptoms are eventually succeeded by crisis of adrenal exhaustion and ischemic heart disease [the blockage of coronary arteries and heart attacks]."

n most cases, the foods used for research analysis were exposed to microwave propagation at an energy potential of 100 kilowatts/cm3/second, to the point considered acceptable for sanitary, normal ingestion. The effects noted by both German and Russian researchers is presented in three categories: Category I, Cancer-Causing Effects Category II, Nutritive Destruction of Foods Category III, Biological Effects of Exposure

A recently published research article looks at potential health consequences of dirty electricity and calls for investigations into its role in unexplained illnesses such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and ADHD.

the amount of electromagnetic radiation we are exposed to on a daily basis, in our homes, places of work, schools, and practically everywhere else, is increasing at a rapid rate. This electromagnetic pollution is present in the form of dirty electricity, ground current, and radio frequency radiation from wireless devices.

his trend is set to continue as the electronic devices we have come to rely on become ever more ubiquitous, and new "must have" devices are developed. There are not many people in the western world who don't spend the majority of their day in proximity to electronics such as televisions, computers, cells phones, and countless other devices. This situation has led an increasing number of people to wonder what effects this constant barrage of electromagnetic radiation might be having on the human body.

increasingly visible in the academic and medical worlds

article was published by Dr. Magda Havas from the Environmental and Resource Studies Department at Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.

regarding symptoms suspected of being caused by electromagnetic radiation, particularly so called "dirty electricity". It also looks at several instances in which symptoms have disappeared once measures to reduce exposure to electromagnetic radiation had been taken.

Symptoms associated with dirty electricity are reported to have been reduced when special filters, known as Graham-Stetzer (GS) filters, have been installed in public buildings such as schools

the rise in electromagnetic pollution has paralleled increases in the number of people suffering from "invisible illnesses" such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as learning disabilities such as ADD/ADHD and autism. People suffering from these unexplained syndromes often suspect that electronic equipment may be contributing to their illnesses, and now a growing number researchers are calling for more research to determine if this might be true.

Other sources

ground current and radio frequency radiation.

he wires returning to the power stations can't carry all the electrical current that they need to so the current instead passes through the surface of the Earth. This electrical energy which likely already contains high frequency contamination can pick up more as it goes along and may enter the wiring system of your home and other buildings

These devices include cell phones, cordless home phones, and wireless internet equipment, contributing to the electromagnetic pollution already present in the home, school or office.

World Health Organization announced that Electrical Hypersensitivity (EHS) is a "growing worldwide health concern"

In 2005

EMF's have also been linked to diseases such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis , ADD/ADHD, depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as to many of the sleep disorders plaguing western society. The effect is thought to depend on an individual ’s sensitivity, as well as the magnitude, duration of exposure, and path the waves take through one's body.

2. What are the sources of exposure to radio frequency (RF) fields?

1.2 Exposure to electromagnetic fields triggers immediate biological effects if they are strong enough. Effects range from stimulation of nerves and muscles to heating of the body tissues, depending on the frequency. Exposure guidelines have been established to protect against these effects

Most man-made electromagnetic fields reverse their direction with time at a specific frequency, ranging from high radio frequencies (RF) – such as used by mobile phones – through intermediate frequencies (IF) – such as generated by computer screens – to extremely low frequencies (ELF) – such as generated by power lines.

Radio frequency (RF) fields have many applications in modern communications

mobile phones, cordless phones, local wireless networks and radio transmission towers. Medical scanners, radar systems and microwave ovens also use radio frequency fields. Radio frequencies range from 100 kHz to 300 GHz.

When exposed to radio frequency fields, the body absorbs energy over time

distance from the various sources

a person may absorb more energy from a device used at close quarters –

a handheld mobile phone, for example – than from a more powerful source, like a radio transmission tower, that is farther away

Europe

For handheld mobile phones, these limits are given in terms of the energy absorbed by the head, the part of the body most exposed during use. Other wireless devices used in close quarters, like cordless phones and wireless computer networks, also generate radio waves but exposure from these sources is generally lower than from mobile phones.

2 Mobile phone base stations and radio transmission towers are structures designed to support antennas that transmit radio signals

Because the field strength decreases rapidly with distance, most people are exposed to only a fraction of the maximum recommended. People who live or work near transmission towers are most exposed because that is where the fields are strongest

In recent years many studies have investigated whether mobile phones and radio frequency (RF) fields in general could cause cancer. Epidemiological studies on mobile phone users have focused on cancers originating in the head, especially brain tumours. Overall, research indicates that mobile phone use does not increase the risk of cancer, especially when used less than 10 years. More research is needed before a risk can be ruled out for use beyond 10 years.

Some studies have raised concern of a link between mobile phone use and benign tumours of the auditory nerve, which is responsible for balance and hearing. People who have been using mobile phones for less than 10 years do not appear to have a higher risk of this benign tumour (acoustic neuroma). But there is some evidence of a risk beyond 10 years, and more study is needed

Some people attribute headaches, fatigue and dizziness to radio frequency (RF) fields. Such complaints have raised concern that certain individuals may be more sensitive than others to electromagnetic energy. Present knowledge suggests that these symptoms are not linked to exposure to radio frequency fields, but few studies have addressed this issue directly.

Because mobile phones are used near the head, there have been concerns they could affect the brain.

Minor changes in the brain functions of people exposed to radio frequency fields have been observed in some studies but not in others. Suspicions that radio frequency fields could affect memory and learning have not been confirmed. Conflicting results were reported on whether low levels of radio frequency fields increase the permeability of the barrier that keeps harmful substances from reaching the brain (blood-brain barrier)

3.1 In recent years many studies have investigated whether mobile phones and radio frequency (RF) fields in general could cause cancer. Epidemiological studies on mobile phone users have focused on cancers originating in the head, especially brain tumours. Overall, research indicates that mobile phone use does not increase the risk of cancer, especially when used less than 10 years. More research is needed before a risk can be ruled out for use beyond 10 years. Some studies have raised concern of a link between mobile phone use and benign tumours of the auditory nerve, which is responsible for balance and hearing. People who have been using mobile phones for less than 10 years do not appear to have a higher risk of this benign tumour (acoustic neuroma). But there is some evidence of a risk beyond 10 years, and more study is needed

Some people attribute headaches, fatigue and dizziness to radio frequency (RF) fields. Such complaints have raised concern that certain individuals may be more sensitive than others to electromagnetic energy. Present knowledge suggests that these symptoms are not linked to exposure to radio frequency fields, but few studies have addressed this issue directly.

Because mobile phones are used near the head, there have been concerns they could affect the brain. Minor changes in the brain functions of people exposed to radio frequency fields have been observed in some studies but not in others. Suspicions that radio frequency fields could affect memory and learning have not been confirmed. Conflicting results were reported on whether low levels of radio frequency fields increase the permeability of the barrier that keeps harmful substances from reaching the brain (blood-brain barrier).

Static magnetic fields like those used in medical imaging MRI scanners use static magnetic fieldsCredit: Kasuga Huang 8.1 Static magnetic fields such as those generated by a permanent magnet do not vary over time, and as such do not have a frequency (0 Hz). Man-made static magnetic fields are generated wherever electricity is used in the form of direct current (DC), for instance in some rail and subway systems, in aluminium production and in welding. In medicine, MRI scanners use static magnetic fields to provide three-dimensional images of the brain and other body parts. In this application the exposure can exceed the usual recommended limit, both for the MRI operator and the patien

2nd group were less clear

by means of the device MTU 500H, Therapy System (Brno, Czech Republic) for 5 days, two times daily for 30 minutes

1st group showed an improvement of FVC of about 70 ml, IVC of about 110 ml, FEV1 of about 80 ml, MEF75 of about 30 ml, PEF of about 480 ml, PIF of about 550 ml

he flow-volume loop showed a mild improvement in 14 children. This improvement in the 2nd group was less significant

We believe that the pulsatile electro-magnetotherapy in children suffering from asthma is effective.