Genetic damage in humans exposed to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields

Abstract

The classification of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in the group of 'possible human carcinogens' (group 2B) is essentially based on epidemiologic evidence showing an association between MF exposures and childhood leukaemia. Despite many in vitro and in vivo investigations, there is no established causal relationship yet. However, human cytogenetic biomonitoring studies that were conducted in the past show predominantly positive results, i.e. increased cytogenetic damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes or buccal cells of ELF-MF-exposed subjects. This is important given the established link between observed cytogenetic damage in cells of people and an increased cancer risk. We here conducted an evaluation of the published investigations and found that many of the studies clearly have shortcomings, which often prevent any firm conclusion. As a matter of fact, there are reasons to believe that effects are not that impressive. However, the totality of the studies cannot simply be disregarded warranting further caution and the application, to a certain extent, of the precautionary principle.

Effects of four kinds of electromagnetic fields (EMF) with different frequency spectrum bands on ovariectomized osteoporosis in mice

“…However, epidemiology studies reported that EMF might in relation to brain cancer and leukemia 54–56 . Despite many in vitro and in vivo investigations, there is no established causal relationship yet.…”

Resveratrol may reverse the effects of long-term occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields on workers of a power plant

“…It was speculated that exposure to chromium, nickel and/or other metals may lead to the different results between theirs and other investigations. A tendency of DNA damage induced by ELF-EMFs could potentially result in mutagenesis [ 24 ]. The subjects in this study were occupationally exposed to ELF-EMF for more than 20 years, therefore the elevated levels of urinary 8-OHdG and F2-isoprostane observed may be a cumulative effect.…”

Genotoxicity by Electromagnetic Fields

“…However, it has been theorized that these fields may enhance such damage from other sources, e.g. endogenous radicals [26]. Furthermore, the inconclusive nature of laboratory experiments turns this concern more conflicting.…”

“…Three important reviews published in the 90s [6,34,35] and recently by Maes and Verschaeve [26], concluded that ELF-EMFs do not directly cause genotoxic effects. Only a small minority of the reported studies indicate potential of these fields to cause genetic changes in biological systems.…”