Genetic damage in mammalian somatic cells exposed to extremely low frequency electro-magnetic fields: a meta-analysis of data from 87 publications (1990-2007).
OBJECTIVE
A meta-analysis was conducted to obtain a 'quantitative' estimate of the extent of genetic damage in mammalian somatic cells exposed to non-ionizing radiation emitted from extremely low frequency electro-magnetic fields (ELF-EMF) and to compare with that in unexposed control cells.


METHODS
The methods used for the meta-analysis were recommended in several standard text books. Three specific variables related to ELF-EMF exposure characteristics were examined in the meta-analysis: (i) frequency (Hz), (ii) flux density (mT), and (iii) in occupationally exposed individuals.


CONCLUSIONS
(1) The difference between ELF-EMF-exposed and control cells as well as the 'effect size' due to ELF-EMF exposure were biologically small (although statistically significant) with very few exceptions. (2) At certain ELF-EMF exposure conditions there was a statistically significant increase in genetic damage assessed from some end-points. (3) The mean indices for chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei end-points in ELF-EMF-exposed and control cells were within the spontaneous levels reported in historical database. (4) Considerable evidence for publication bias was found in the meta-analysis.
Vijayalaxmi
Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA. vijay@uthscsa.edu
Prihoda
Thomas J
TJ
D000818:Animals; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations / Q000528:radiation effects; D004249:DNA Damage / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008322:Mammals; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics; D011846:Radio Waves / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012854:Sister Chromatid Exchange