A Study of Lenticular Imperfections in the Eyes of a Sample of Microwave Workers and a Control Population

Biological Effects and Health Implications of Radiofrequency Radiation

“…Although an apparent statistical difference in the score of lens changes between exposed and control groups existed, the difference was considered not significant from a clinical standpoint. According to Zaret et al (1963), the extent of minor lenticular impedections does not serve as a useful clinical indicator of cumulative exposure.…”

“…No statistically significant relationship was found between the opacity score and a numerical exposure index. Zaret et al (1963) conducted a study on the frequency of occurrence of lenticular imperfections in the eyes of microwave workers. The number of defects showed a linear increase with age.…”

“…3. Clinically significant lens changes, which would permit selection of individuals to be followed up, have not been identified (Zaret et al, 1963). 4.…”

Microwave Lens Effects in Humans

“…Next, the fundus was examined by direct ophthalmoscopy. The anterior segment was then examined with a slit lamp having a beam¬ splitter and observation tube attached, noting the following: (1) presence or ab¬ sence of opacities visible as shadows against the red reflex seen in the coaxial (lighting and viewing lines coincident) view. If present, their number and location was also recorded; (2) presence or absence of posterior subcapsular iridescence (PSCI), a polychromatic luster caused by prismatic dispersion visible at the poste¬ rior pole of the lens when the angle of illu¬ mination and angle of viewing are equal with respect to the "normal" line for this region and in the same horizontal plane; (3) absence of all the foregoing signs was re¬ ferred to as a "negative" result of the ex¬ amination.…”

Author’s Response

“…Zaret and co-workers define a cataract as a gross degree of lens opacification resulting in reduced visual acuity. 7 While it may be difficult to define a cataract precisely, 8 a working definition can be made for the purpose of a study. Eye surgeons make pragmatic diagnoses of cataracts every day.…”