A guide for people recovering from illness
Emfacts sheet #3 Emfacts Consultancy, Copyright January 1999
Pollution of all types affects the body - pollution we can smell, see and hear. One of the more controversial pollutants, however, is entirely invisible : electromagnetic fields (EMFs). While we may live a long, healthy life with no ill effects from electromagnetic fields, if we are unwell these fields could be a factor working against our recovery. In the first instance they should be kept to a minimum in order to give the body the best chance of healing. There are ways the fields can be detected and measured and steps can be taken to reduce the exposure in the home and work environment.
EMFs are invisible lines of force that surround all powerline distribution systems, electrical devices and wiring. They consist of an electric and magnetic component. As most of the scientific research investigating adverse health effects have to do with the magnetic field, that is what this paper mainly addresses. Magnetic field levels are measured in units of milligauss (mG) Electric fields may also be a problem but steps taken to reduce magnetic field exposure should also reduce the electric component as well. In Australia the powerline frequency is 50 Hz which is at the Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Until very recently epidemiological studies on health effects of exposure to EMFs have concentrated on the incidence of cancer (See Emfacts sheet #1 : “A guide for people recovering from cancer”). However as evidence continues to accumulate on the health effects of exposure to EMFs, at certain levels and for long duration, it is becoming clear that the fields may act as a low-level immune-system stressor which can manifest in a number of health problems. What those problems may be, very much depends upon the individual’s particular immune system strengths and weaknesses.
It is important to note, however, that people’s exposure to these fields are mostly below the levels where research is presently showing adverse effects on the immune system. Where excessive levels are encountered they can usually be reduced without greatly changing a persons way of life.
EMFs as a possible immune system stressor
In the December issue of The Journal of the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (ACNEM) a paper was published titled:
“Chronic Fatigue Syndrome- Is Prolonged Exposure To Environmental Level Powerline Frequency Electromagnetic Fields A Co-Factor To Consider In Treatment?”
This paper outlines a brief description of the illness commonly known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) which is becoming increasingly common in modern westernized countries.
Specifically CFS has been associated with a depressed immune system. There is suggestive evidence of a link between impairment of immune system function and chronic (long duration) low-level exposure to EMFs. The evidence includes both in vivo and in vitro studies in both humans and animals. In particular, recent research between exposure to EMFs and the inhibition of the hormone melatonin are examined.
The authors conclude that although the link between ELF EMFs and cellular dysfunction are far from proven, sufficient evidence exists to suggest a causal link.
Lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing prudent avoidance of ELF EMFs, particularly in illnesses where the immune system plays a role in recovery.
Evidence that some diseases, such as CFS, involves an immunological disorder is accumulating rapidly. Within the past few years various abnormalities have been found in the immune system of CFS patients, for example. These include alterations in the activity and cell surface structure of two important types of white blood cells: natural killer cells and T-lymphocytes. In some patients subtle changes have been found in the levels of neuroendocrine hormones in the brain. Evidence indicates that CFS is associated with, if not directly caused by, a persistent, low-level impairment of the immune system.
Irrespective of the 'trigger' of the condition, whether it be viral, an environmental factor, a genetic predisposition, stress, or a combination of these factors, any additional contributing factors which may also detrimentally affect the immune system should be identified, investigated and eliminated (or reduced) as part of the treatment. In this regard a co-factor may be considered anything that may cause hormone disruption and biological changes at a cellular level, thus interfering with immune system function. This co-factor may not have initiated the condition, but exposure to it may further stress an already affected immune system. As long as such a situation exists, any treatment is unlikely to have any lasting effect.
This paper points out that existing evidence indicates that exposure to environmental level 50 - 60 Hz EMFs may be an immune system stressor with the potential to cause hormone disruption and changes at a cellular level.
Therefore, EMF exposure should be evaluated as a potential risk factor for people suffering from disorders involving the immune system.
The Evidence:
*In August 1995 a draft report of the U.S. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) was leaked to the New York publication Microwave News. The 800 page document recommended drastically reducing the current allowable powerline frequency exposure levels from 1000 milligauss (mG) to 2 mG. The scientific committee found that; ”In key areas of bio-electromagnetic research, findings are sufficiently consistent and form a sufficiently coherent picture to suggest plausible connections between ELF EMF exposures and disruption of normal biological processes, in ways meriting detailed examination of potential implications in human health.”
From studies on humans the committee cited evidence for a link between EMFs and “neuroendocrine and autonomic responses which, separately or collectively, may have pathophysiological implications” and “neurochemical, physiological, behavioural and chronobiological responses with implications for development of the nervous system.”
From laboratory studies the committee noted that EMFs “alter gene transcriptional processes, the natural defense response of T-lymphocytes and other cellular processes”.... and “affect neuroendocrine and psychosexual responses”.
According to the Committee, problematic sources of ELF EMFs include local electrical distribution systems as well as high voltage power transmission systems. Particular appliances, including electric blankets and video display units also rate highly as problem sources along with "various occupational environments".
The NCRP committee report stated that the evidence points to human health hazards in everyday exposures to EMFs, particularly magnetic fields exceeding 2 mG .
According to the committee:
"..there is an implication that a significant proportion of the world's population may be subjected to a low level of risk, but a risk factor with significant societal consequences, by reason of its pervasive nature and the serious consequences for affected individuals."
*In one notable study, Beale et al.(1997) examined eight immune-related and chronic illnesses (variables) in a group of 560 adults living near extra high voltage transmission lines in Auckland New Zealand. Using a cross-sectional design to examine the dose-response relationship between MF exposure of adults in their homes and prevalence of these illnesses, five of the eight health variables showed a linear dose-response relationship with exposure. After adjustment for possible confounding, significantly elevated odds ratios were obtained for combined chronic illnesses at higher exposure levels. As reported in the paper abstract,
"The results are consistent with a possible adverse effect of environmental magnetic field exposure on immune-related and other illnesses".
*A 1998 study by Bonhomme-Faivre et al. found evidence that chronic human exposure to environmental low frequency EMFs . . . can cause neurovegetative, hematological and immunological disorders". Specifically they found that a group of workers who were exposed to magnetic fields ranging from 0.9 mG to 66 mG had significantly lower lymphocyte counts than a similar control group not exposed to these levels. The exposed group also reported significantly more occurrence of subjective conditions - mental and physical fatigue, depression, melancholy, irritability, fainting and diminished libido - than did the control group. Of particular interest with this study were two workers who had exposures from 3 mG to 66 mG and worked full-time above transformers. Both were found to have depressed lymphocyte levels which quickly returned to normal when they stopped working in that area.
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Evidence indicates that it is prolonged or cumulative exposures to magnetic fields over 2 to 3 mG (milligauss) that are implicated and that prolonged exposure to these levels may also act as an immune system stressor. Previous surveys in suburban Melbourne found that average home exposures are in the order of 0.5 to 0.7 mG. Extensive surveys in the USA found that in some 98% of U.S. homes, the average strength of magnetic fields ranges from 0.5 to 0.9 mG. However there are specific areas of concern where people may be exposed to significant EMFs without realizing. This paper attempts to address those concerns and advises on ways to reduce one’s accumulated weekly exposures as a precautionary approach.
What EMF levels are “safe”?
The question of what is a “safe”level is not as simple as it first appears. Overall the evidence indicates that levels over 2 to 3 mG are implicated with immune system effects, including cancer, but it may be only a small subset of the population that is susceptible to these levels. It is simply not possible to ascertain the degree of risk for healthy people, but for those that are recovering from illness, the evidence that EMF exposure may be an immune system stressor is a vital consideration.
To help the healing process, especially for those who are recovering from illness, avoidance of excessive electromagnetic fields is vital.
What to look for in the home:
1) Electrical currents on metal water pipes
Research over the last few years has found that high 50 or 60 Hz magnetic fields can be generated in buildings due to electrical current flow on copper and steel water pipes, earth wires and neutral lines. These fields are easy to measure. In simple terms, when a current flows from the neutral line through the earth wire, then through the water pipe, high fields can be generated in the building. This problem can usually be corrected easily by placing a two metre length of gray poly water pipe in the water line between where the metal water pipe is bonded by an earth wire to the house earth spike and the water meter. This acts to isolate the water piping from any electrical current flow. This work must be carried out by a licensed plumber . It should be a building requirement that all homes which have a metal pipe water system be electrically isolated from the street water mains.
2) Is Proximity to Powerlines a Problem?
In a 1997 residential survey conducted in Melbourne for a group of 33 people, the contribution to household magnetic field levels from external sources, such as powerlines, was very low. However the time-of-day of measurements may have resulted in lower levels than may be found at other times. One Australian study of cancer and proximity to powerlines has been shelved due to the finding that the fields within the homes were, in many cases, higher from local sources, such as Electrical currents on metal water pipes than the outside fields from the nearby powerlines. The only way to determine possible problems with nearby powerlines is to have the levels measured by a qualified technician. Emfacts (contact details at end of this paper) may be able to advise you as to suitable people in your area.
3) In-Floor Electrical Heating
This type of heating, where energized electrical wiring is embedded in the concrete floor is of special concern. When turned on the fields can be in the order of 100+ mG at the floor and 30+ mG at waist height. It is advisable to turn off particular rooms when spending time in them. Hazardous to small children who may spend much of their day playing on the floor.
4) Electrical Appliances
We usually spend many hours per week in close proximity to various electrical appliances, both at home and work. While individual exposures may not be a problem, the accumulated weekly total exposure may be significant. The following chart gives an indication of emissions from everyday appliances. Generally, with the exception of the microwave oven, at a distance of one metre from the appliance no discernible fields are present. Just increasing your ‘safe’ distance may greatly reduce your cumulative exposure.
Sample of Magnetic Fields for Common Appliances*
(in milligauss units)
--------------------------------------------------------------
Appliance Distance from appliance
10 cm / 30 cm / 50 cm
Hair Dryer 185 10 4.6
Dishwasher 24 4.8 1.8
Iron 20 3 nil
Vacuum Cleaner 45 9 2.6
Photocopier 27 6 2.1
Colour TV 20 6.2 2.2
Computer monitor 4.9 2.1 0.6
Microwave Oven 120 24 12
Bedside clock radio 140 4.6 1.4
Juicer 700 2.3 0.9
Electric range 11.5 2.2 0.7
Washing machine 12.3 8.2 5.4
Sewing machine 23 3.5 1.2
Juicing machine 220 12.8 6.6
_______________________________
*Fields vary widely according to manufacturer and depends upon how the appliance is wired. Some appliances give off EMFs even when switched off at its internal switch but still plugged into the energized power point. Such appliances need to be switched off at the wall, or unplugged, to remove the fields.
CRT Computer Monitors (Visual Display Units-VDUs)
Most modern computer monitors using TV type cathode ray tubes (CRT ), are built to comply with the Swedish MPR II guidelines to give off a maximum of 2.5 mG at a distance of 50 cm from the screen. Computer monitors also emit higher frequencies which are difficult to measure. For a ‘safe’ distance the screen should be just beyond arms length. Some new monitors also can ‘out gas’ toxic gasses as the electronic components first hot up. Ideally new units should be ran in well ventilated spaces for two weeks before use to allow gasses to be burned off. Most VDUs give off higher fields at the back. Never sit less that two meters from the back of a VDU. As magnetic fields can pass through walls be aware what may be on the other side of the wall. According to research in Sweden by Arnetz and Berg, office workers who used CRT type VDUs had a significant reduction in circulating levels of melatonin and an increase in the stress hormone ACTH, over the course of a working day.
In 1998 the Swedish Union of Clerical and Technical Employees in Industry published an information booklet for its members “Hypersensitive in IT [Information Technology] environments”. This booklet details research which found possible immune system related complaints among an increasing percentage of its members who used computers regularly.
Considering the above, and anecdotal evidence which indicates people with weakened immune systems may be more sensitive to EMFs. It may be prudent to avoid extensive CRT computer use for those people who are recovering from immune system related illnesses.
New computer monitors, using liquid crystal displays (LCD) are now available, which have virtually no emissions. Currently they cost about $3000 each but this price should drop to be competitive with conventional monitors within two years.
Lap Top Computers
Lap top computers, using LCDs give off very low EMFs. However they can have high electric fields right up against the case. Best to use on a desk, not the lap!
Electric Stoves & Ovens
These give off high fields when operating. Try to keep as much distance as practical while cooking.
Dishwashers
Modern dishwashers can give off significant fields close to the case, even when not in use as long as they are plugged into the mains. It is best not to lean up against the bench while working directly in front of the washer.
Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens give off very high magnetic fields which can usually be measured up to 3 metres away from the appliance. They can also leak microwave radiation. When using keep at least two meters away. When the food is ready, take out of the oven and leave to stand for 2-3 minutes to reduce free radicals in the food.
Sewing Machines
The motors of sewing machines can give off high magnetic and electric fields. Statistically significant increases in Alzheimer’s Disease have been found with machinists using industrial sewing machines.
Televisions
TV emissions vary greatly according to manufacturer and give off a mix of higher frequencies. It may be prudent to sit at least 3 meters away from the screen.
Electric Blankets
Magnetic field levels emitted by an energized electric blanket are significantly implicated with breast cancer by disruption of melatonin, produced by the pineal gland at night. Magnetic field levels of 12 mG have repeatedly been found to block both the ability of both melatonin and Tamoxifen to suppress breast cancer cells in the laboratory.
Emission levels of electric blankets vary widely but one brand measured was found to emit:
Setting #1____ 8 mG
Setting #2____14 mG
Setting #3____21 mG
Safe use of the electric blanket is to use it to warm the bed and turn off before retiring for the night. Preferably also unplug it to eliminate any possibility of electric fields being present. It is also important to ensure that no possible sources of EMFs are near the bedhead or on the other side of the wall (such as a meter box, TV, etc.).
Bed head night exposures should ideally be below 1 mG and certainly under 2-3 mG if you wish to be exposed to less magnetic fields (and electric) than are implicated in some of the studies showing adverse health effects.
Hair Dryers
These give off very high fields but vary widely depending upon the manufacturer. It is advisable to limit time using hair dryers as a precaution. The best solution is to use a dryer that has a flexible tube from the heat source, allowing a safe distance from its magnetic field to be maintained.
Mobile phones
Though mobile phones operate in the microwave frequencies they are mentioned here because of their prevalence in society and the findings of a recent joint Swedish-Norwegian epidemiological study (Mild 1998) which found a significant occurrence of fatigue with people reporting problems with mobile phone usage. The authors found that “among symptoms from the nervous system, the most pronounced effects were seen for headaches and fatigue.”
Are devices available to provide protection from EMFs?
As concerns increase about the possible harmful effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields, there is a corresponding increase in the advertisement of various devices that claim to protect the body against EMFs. These devices make various claims, such as: trapping negative radiation (EMFs) and then rebroadcasting it as a life energy field; enforcing natural bio-energy by creating a protective field around the body; use of universal energy from particles that travel faster than light to harmonize man made EMFs, etc. The common factor in all these devices is that they do not remove the measured fields.
When using established scientific methodology, such as double blind studies and epidemiological evidence, there is no evidence that these devices work as claimed. To suggest that use of these devices will protect one against ill health from EMF exposure, as often claimed, is to do so without scientific evidence and proof. When these devices are tested by independent laboratories using appropriate orthodox scientific protocols, then it may be appropriate to make these claims should they be found to exist.
REFERENCE
Maisch D, Rapley B, Rowland RE, Podd J, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome- Is Prolonged Exposure To Environmental Level Powerline Frequency Electromagnetic Fields A Co-Factor To Consider In Treatment? ACNEM Journal, Vol. 17, #2, November 1998.
For further information please contact:
Don Maisch, Emfacts Consultancy, PO Box 96, North Hobart, 7002, Tasmania. Ph: (03) 6243 0195
Fax: (03) 6243 0340
E-mail: emfacts@trump.net.au
Copyright February 1999
Reference papers available from EMFacts Consultancy. Jointly written by EMFacts and the Bioelectromagnetic Research And Information Network, New Zealand.
Maisch D, Melatonin, Tamoxifen, 50-60 Hertz Electromagnetic Fields and Breast Cancer: A Discussion Paper , Senate Hansard, 29 October 1997.
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