Biophysical estimation of the environmental importance of electromagnetic fields.
The rapid development of science and technology exposes living organisms to a wide range of electromagnetic fields. Some life-style and occupational conditions are associated with a level of electromagnetic fields higher than average. A series of epidemiological studies has raised concern about possible cancer risk of electromagnetic fields generated by power lines and electrical appliances. In contrast, hundreds of thousands of patients world-wide have been cured by use of electromagnetic fields. Biological effects of low-level electromagnetic radiation have become the focus of a number of studies. However, there are not enough basic scientific data related to mechanisms of action of electromagnetic fields. This paper proposes a biophysical approach to the estimation of the environmental importance of electromagnetic fields. The methods of collecting data, dosimetry, possible mechanisms of action and open problems are discussed in this review.
Markov
M S
MS
Department of Orthopedics, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY 10029-6574.
D011211:Electric Power Supplies; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D004787:Environmental Pollution; D006801:Humans; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000209:etiology; D011829:Radiation Dosage