title: Geophysical variables and behavior: LIII. Epidemiological considerations for incidence of cancer and depression in areas of frequent UFO reports.
abstract: Luminous phenomena and anomalous physical forces have been hypothesized to be generated by focal tectonic strain fields that precede earthquakes. If these geophysical processes exist, then their spatial and temporal density should be greatest during periods of protracted, localized UFO reports; they might be used as dosimetric indicators. Contemporary epidemiological data concerning the health risks of power frequency electromagnetic fields and radon gas levels (expected correlates of certain tectonic strain fields), suggest that increased incidence (odds ratios greater 1:3) of brain tumors and leukemia should be evident within "flap" areas. In addition the frequency of variants of temporal lobe lability, psychological depression and posttraumatic stress should be significantly elevated. UFO field investigators, because they have repeated, intermittent close proximity to these fields, are considered to be a particularly high risk population for these disorders.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Persinger
mesh_terms: D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D055590:Electromagnetic Phenomena / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005060:Europe; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009656:North America; D011886:Radon / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D011886:Radon