HEALTH + WELLNESS
childhood leukemias. Microwave or
high frequency RF (radio frequency)
are present in cordless phones, cell
phones and towers. They have been
shown to heat tissues and penetrate
the blood brain barrier and have been
associated with an increased risk of
brain cancer and heart disease. Overall exposure is typically low on any
given day, but the effects are additive over time. The concern is that
long-term exposure may be related to
increased risk for certain cancer types
as well as the development of neurological or developmental disorders. A
variety of non-cancer health concerns
have also been raised including sleep
disturbances, chronic headaches,
fatigue, depression, Alzheimer’s and
cognitive dysfunction.
Researchers have not agreed on an
actual link. In 2002, based on data compiled by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research
on Cancer, they agreed there was
compelling epidemiological evidence to
place EMFs as “Potential Carcinogens
to Humans.” Since then researchers
and corporations refuse to link EMFs
to risks without a plausible mechanism
and controlled long-term studies. The
situation is reminiscent of the debate
over tobacco smoking/lung cancer and
thalidomide/birth defects. By the time
there was compelling evidence to warn
Americans, millions of individuals had
been adversely affected.
Members of the European Union
and those of the International EMF
Alliance, which review and initiate
the research on EMFs, have moved
forward in protecting the citizens of
Europe. In the past two years, France,
England and Germany have passed
legislation which dismantled wireless
networks in schools and public libraries. They have recommended new
technology to reduce the risk of exposure with development of new devices.
Israel banned cell phone towers on
residential areas, and Russian officials
have recommended against cell phone
use in individuals under 18. To date,
no regulations or changes have been
made in the United States.
Although the data regarding health
risks and EMFs is not conclusive, there
are validated concerns over long-term
effects, and individuals should make
efforts to reduce their personal burden.
It is not practical to completely avoid
EMFs, but the following recommendations may reduce the long-term risk
until further research can offer individuals definitive recommendations.
SPRING 2016
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