Health Effects of EMF Exposure: the Mercury Connection (Gov’t studies)

In a long term comprehensive electromagnetic fields(EMF) risk assessment study by the California Dept. of Health Services, all reviewers concluded that it is highly likely that EMF causes some forms of cancer, along with chronic neurological conditions like ALS(Lou Gehrig’s’s disease) and depression. They also found a significant likelihood that EMF causes cardiovascular problems and increased suicide(1). People are commonly exposed to electromagnetic fields from computer monitors, microwaves, televisions, other appliances, and power lines.

Environmental exposure to high-frequency voltage transients (HFVT), also termed dirty electricity, has been suggested among electro(hyper)sensitive interest groups as an important biological active component of standard electromagnetic pollution. In some studies exposure to HFVT was associated with increased cancer risks, while preferential removal of 4-100 kHz HFVT from 50-60 Hz ELF circuits was linked to a variety of improvements in health (plasma glucose levels in diabetic patients, symptoms of multiple sclerosis, asthma and other respiratory illnesses, and insomnia), well-being (tiredness, frustration, general health, irritation, sense of satisfaction, mood), and student behavior (20). However more studies are needed to verify and clarify the findings.

Actually there is strong evidence in the medical literature already supporting these conclusions and documenting mechanisms by which the effects occur. The evidence is based on the fact that chronic mercury exposure has been documented to cause all of these conditions (12-16), and EMF, microwave, or MRI exposure has been documented to cause significant release of mercury into the body, including the brain and Central Nervous System, from those who have amalgam(2,19). Studies have found persons with chronic exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF), microwaves, or MRIs to have higher levels of mercury exposure and excretion(2,9,19). Electromagnetic fields are known to induce current in metals and would increase the documented effects of galvanism (9,12-16). Amalgam has also been documented to be the largest source of mercury exposure in most people who have amalgam fillings(12,16).

EMF is also documented in animal and human studies to cause cellular calcium efflux and affect calcium homeostasis(3,4), which may be a factor in the reduction of melatonin levels caused by EMF exposure in animal and human studies(4,5). In studies on chicks this had significant adverse effects on viability of embryos and chicks. Melatonin is known to be protective against mercury and free radical activity and against cell proliferation(cancer)(17), as well as regulating the circadian rhythm cycle and sleep cycle. EMF exposure lowers melatonin production, disrupts the sleep cycle(5,8c), and blocks melatonin’s cell antiproliferation effects (17). Another study provides evidence for an association between occupational electromagnetic fields and suicide(10). The authors indicate that a plausible mechanism related to melatonin and depression provides a direction for additional laboratory research as well as epidemiological evaluation.

Occupational exposure to higher levels of EMF have also been found in many studies to result in much higher risk of chronic degenerative neurological conditions such as ALS(6), Alzheimer’s Disease(7), Depression(11), as well as Leukemia and Cancer(8,6e). Since EMF, microwaves, MRIs,etc. cause increased mercury exposure in those with amalgam, and mercury is also known to cause these conditions(13-16), again it is not clear the relative importance of the factors since the studies were not controlled for mercury levels or number of amalgam fillings.

References

(1) California Dept. of Health Services, California EMF Program, Draft of final risk evaluation report,

www.dhs.cahwnet.gov/ehib/emf/RiskEvaluation/riskeval.html

(2) F.Schmidt et al, "Mercury in urine of employees exposed to magnetic fields", Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen, 1997, 117(2): 199‑202; & Granlund-Lind R, Lans M, Rennerfelt J, "Computers and amalgam are the most common causes of hypersensitivity to electricity according to sufferers' reports", Läkartidningen 2002; 99: 682-683 (Swedish); & Sheppard AR and EisenbudM., Biological Effects of electric and magnetic fields of extremely low frequency. New York university press. 1977; & Ortendahl T W, Hogstedt P, Holland RP, "Mercury vapor release from dental amalgam in vitro caused by magnetic fields generated by CRT's", Swed Dent J 1991 p 31

(3) Aldinucci C; Palmi M; Sgaragli G; Benocci A; Meini A; Pessina F; Pessina GP. The effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields on the physiologic behaviour of a human astrocytoma cell line. Biochim Biophys Acta 2000, 11;1499(1‑2):101‑108; & Fitzsimmons RJ, Ryaby JT, Magee FP, Baylink DJ. Combined magnetic fields increased net calcium flux in bone cells. Calcif Tissue Int 1994 Nov;55(5):376‑80

(4) Pablos MI; Agapito MT; Gutierrez‑Baraja R; Reiter RJ; Recio JM. Effect of calcium on melatonin secretion in chick pineal gland I. Neurosci Lett 1996 Oct18;217(2‑3):161‑4; & Nikaido SS; Takahashi JS. Calcium modulates circadian variation in cAMP‑stimulated melatonin in chick pineal cells. Brain Res 1996 15;716(1‑2):1‑10; & Youbicier‑Simo BJ; Boudard F; Cabaner C; Bastide M. Biological effects of continuous exposure of embryos and young chickens to electromagnetic fields emitted by video display units. Bioelectromagnetics 1997;18(7):514‑23 ;

(5) Juutilainen J; Stevens RG; et al; Nocturnal 6‑hydroxymelatonin sulfate excretion in female workers exposed to magnetic fields. J Pineal Res 2000 ;28(2):97‑104; & Akerstedt T; Arnetz B; Ficca G; Paulsson LE; Kallner A. A 50‑Hz electromagnetic field impairs sleep. J Sleep Res 1999 Mar;8(1):77‑8 & Ronco AL, Halberg F. The pineal gland and cancer. Anticancer Res 1996 Jul‑Aug;16(4A):2033‑9; &

& Zecca L, Mantegazza C, Margonato V, Cerretelli P, Caniatti M, Piva F, Dondi D,

Hagino N. Biological effects of prolonged exposure to ELF electromagnetic

fields in rats: III. 50 Hz electromagnetic fields. Bioelectromagnetics 1998;19(1):57‑66

(6) Savitz DA; Checkoway H; Loomis DP. Magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative disease mortality among electric utility workers. Epidemiology 1998 Jul;9(4):398‑404; & Savitz DA; Loomis DP; Tse CK. Electrical occupations and neurodegenerative disease: analysis of U.S. mortality data.Arch Environ Health 1998 Jan‑Feb;53(1):71‑4; & Johansen C; Olsen JH. Mortality from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, other chronic disorders, and electric shocks among utility workers.Am J Epidemiol 1998 Aug 15;148(4):362‑8; & Davanipour Z; Sobel E; Bowman JD; Qian Z; Will AD. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields. Bioelectromagnetics 1997;18(1):28‑35; & (e)Ahlbom II, Cardis E, Green A, Linet M, Savitz D, Swerdlow A. Review of the Epidemiologic Literature on EMF and Health. Environ Health Perspect 2001 Dec;109 Suppl 6:911-933; &(f)Ahlbom A. Neurodegenerative diseases, suicide and depressive symptoms in relation to EMF. Bioelectromagnetics 2001;Suppl 5:S132‑43

(7) Sobel E; Dunn M; Davanipour Z; Qian Z; Chui HC. Elevated risk of Alzheimer's disease among workers with likely electromagnetic field exposure. Neurology 1996 ;47(6):1477‑81; & Sobel E, Davanipour Z. Electromagnetic field exposure may cause increased production of amyloid beta and eventually lead to Alzheimer's disease. Neurology. 1996 Dec;47(6):1594‑600; & Sobel E; Davanipour Z; Sulkava R; Erkinjuntti T; Wikstrom J et al; Occupations with exposure to electromagnetic fields: a possible risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Am J Epidemiol 1995 Sep 1;142(5):515‑24; & Hansen NH, Sobel E, Davanipour Z, Gillette LM, Niiranen J, Wilson BW. EMF exposure assessment in the finnish garment industry: evaluation of proposed EMF exposure metrics. Bioelectromagnetics 2000, Jan;21(1):57‑67

(8) London SJ; Bowman JD; Sobel E; Thomas DC; Garabrant DH; Pearce N; Bernstein L; Peters JM. Exposure to magnetic fields among electrical workers in relation to leukemia risk in Los Angeles County. Am J Ind Med 1994 Jul;26(1):47‑60; & Caplan LS; Schoenfeld ER; O'Leary ES; Leske MC. Breast cancer and electromagnetic fields‑‑a review. Ann Epidemiol 2000 Jan;10(1):31‑44; & (c)Stevens RG, Davis S. The melatonin hypothesis: electric power and breast cancer. Environ Health Perspect 1996 Mar;104 Suppl 1:135‑40

(9) Mercury Exposure and Health Effects from Dental Amalgam Galvanism,

www.home.earthlink.net/~berniew1/galv.html

(10)van Wijngaarden E, Savatz D, Kleckner R, Cai J, Loomis D. Exposure to electromagnetic fields and suicide among electric utility Workers: a nested case-control study. Occup Environ Med 2000; 57:258-263

(11) Zyss T, Dobrowolski JW, Krawczyk K. Neurotic disturbances, depression and anxiety disorders in the population living in the vicinity of overhead high‑voltage transmission line 400 kV. Epidemiological pilot study Med Pr 1997;48(5):495‑505

(12) Kingman A, Albertini T, Brown LJ, Mercury concentrations in urine and whole blood associated with amalgam exposure in a US military population., J Dent Res 1998 Mar;77(3):461-71

(population of over 1000 Air Force personnel; found each 10 amalgam surfaces increased mercury in urine by approx. 1 microgram per liter); &

(b) Leistevuo J, Pyy L, Osterblad M, Dental amalgam fillings and the amount of organic mercury in human saliva. Caries Res 2001 May‑Jun;35(3):163‑6; &

(c) Bjorkman L, Sandborgh-Englund G, Ekstrand J. "Mercury in Saliva and Feces after Removal of Amalgam Fillings", Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 1997, 144(1), p156-62;

(d) Mercury levels from amalgam fillings, DAMS, www.flcv.com/damspr1.html

(13) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS): the mercury connection, www.flcv.com/als.html

(14) Alzheimer’s Disease: the Mercury Connection, www.flcv.com/alzhg.html

(15) Depression: the Mercury Connection: www.home.earthlink.net/~berniew1/depress.html

(16)Mercury exposure and related health effects from amalgam fillings, www.flcv.com/amalg6.html

(B.Windham(Ed.), over 2000 peer-reviewed medical studies reviewed and referenced),

(17) Drs Masami Ishido and Hiroshi Nitta, Japan's National Institute for Environmental Studies in Tsukuba, “12 mG EMFs Can Inhibit Melatonin Effect”, Microwave News Sept/October 2001

www.tassie.net.au/emfacts/forum/1_4ezine3.html

(18) Draper G, Vincent T, Kroll M & Swanson J, Oxford Childhood Cancer Research Group - Childhood cancer and electromagnetic field exposures from powerlines - Department of Health funded 1997-2001, RRX 46

(19) Mercury release from dental amalgam restorations after magnetic resonance imaging and following mobile phone use. Pak J Biol Sci. 2008 Apr 15;11(8): 1142-6, Mortazavi SM, Daiee E, Yazdi A, Khiabani K, Mood MB,et al

(20) "Dirty electricity": what, where, and should we care?; de Vocht F., J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol. 2010 Mar 24.

(21) Dirty Power: a factor in an unusual cancer cluster at La Quinta Middle School in southern California, Milham S, Morgan L, American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2009.

Pablos MI; Agapito MT; Gutierrez‑Baraja R; Reiter RJ; Recio JM. Effect

of calcium on melatonin secretion in chick pineal gland I. Neurosci Lett

1996 Oct18;217(2‑3):161‑4; & Nikaido SS; Takahashi JS. Calcium modulates circadian variation in cAMP‑stimulated melatonin in chick pineal cells. Brain Res 1996 Apr

15;716(1‑2):1‑10; & Youbicier‑Simo BJ; Boudard F; Cabaner C; Bastide M. Biological effects of continuous exposure of embryos and young chickens to electromagnetic fields emitted by video display units. Bioelectromagnetics 1997;18(7):514‑23

(lower melatonin & adverse effects on embryos & young chicks)

calcium input from extracellular medium and output from intracellular

calcium reserves are primary mechanisms in the

activation of melatonin synthesis in the chick pineal gland

****

causes cell calcium efflux and affects calcium homeostatis

Aldinucci C; Palmi M; Sgaragli G; Benocci A; Meini A; Pessina F; Pessina GP. The effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields on the physiologic behaviour of a

human astrocytoma cell line. Biochim Biophys Acta 2000 Dec 11;1499(1‑2):101‑108

EMF exposed workers consistently produced less melatonin

Juutilainen J; Stevens RG; et al; Nocturnal 6‑hydroxymelatonin sulfate excretion in female workers exposed to magnetic fields. J Pineal Res 2000 ;28(2):97‑104; & Akerstedt T; Arnetz B; Ficca G; Paulsson LE; Kallner A. A 50‑Hz electromagnetic field impairs sleep. J Sleep Res 1999 Mar;8(1):77‑81

(impairs sleep quan. & qual.)

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

ALS

Savitz DA; Checkoway H; Loomis DP. Magnetic field exposure and

neurodegenerative disease mortality among electric utility workers.

Epidemiology 1998 Jul;9(4):398‑404. (higher risk in occupations

with exposure, and inc with time)

Savitz DA; Loomis DP; Tse CK. Electrical occupations and

neurodegenerative disease: analysis of U.S. mortality data.Arch Environ

Health 1998 Jan‑Feb;53(1):71‑4.

(5 times higher risk for power plant operators‑ALS) higher for Alz

Johansen C; Olsen JH. Mortality from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,

other chronic disorders, and electric shocks among utility workers.Am J

Epidemiol 1998 Aug 15;148(4):362‑8. higher risk of ALS with

more exposure

Davanipour Z; Sobel E; Bowman JD; Qian Z; Will AD. Amyotrophic lateral

sclerosis and occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Bioelectromagnetics 1997;18(1):28‑35. Occup. with higher exposure to

EMF had higher risk of ALS

***

Savitz DA; Checkoway H; Loomis DP. Magnetic field exposure and

neurodegenerative disease mortality among electric utility workers.

Epidemiology 1998 Jul;9(4):398‑404; & Savitz DA; Loomis DP; Tse CK. Electrical occupations and neurodegenerative disease: analysis of U.S. mortality data.Arch Environ

Health 1998 Jan‑Feb;53(1):71‑4; & Johansen C; Olsen JH. Mortality from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, other chronic disorders, and electric shocks among utility workers.Am J

Epidemiol 1998 Aug 15;148(4):362‑8; & Davanipour Z; Sobel E; Bowman JD; Qian Z; Will AD. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Bioelectromagnetics 1997;18(1):28‑35.

***

Alz

Sobel E; Dunn M; Davanipour Z; Qian Z; Chui HC. Elevated risk of

Alzheimer's disease among workers with likely electromagnetic field

exposure. Neurology 1996 Dec;47(6):1477‑81.

Workers in occup. with more EMF exp. had 4 times higher risk of Alz

Sobel E, Davanipour Z. Electromagnetic field exposure may cause increased

production of amyloid beta and eventually lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Neurology. 1996 Dec;47(6):1594‑600.

Sobel E; Davanipour Z; Sulkava R; Erkinjuntti T; Wikstrom J;

Henderson VW; Buckwalter G; Bowman JD; Lee PJ.

Occupations with exposure to electromagnetic fields: a possible risk

factor for Alzheimer's disease. Am J Epidemiol 1995 Sep 1;142(5):515‑24.

(Occup with more exp. to EMF‑semstress

have 3 times higher risk of Alz)

**********

Sobel E; Dunn M; Davanipour Z; Qian Z; Chui HC. Elevated risk of Alzheimer's disease among workers with likely electromagnetic field exposure. Neurology 1996 ;47(6):1477‑81;

& Sobel E, Davanipour Z. Electromagnetic field exposure may cause increased

production of amyloid beta and eventually lead to Alzheimer's disease. Neurology. 1996 Dec;47(6):1594‑600; & Sobel E; Davanipour Z; Sulkava R; Erkinjuntti T; Wikstrom J et al;

Occupations with exposure to electromagnetic fields: a possible risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Am J Epidemiol 1995 Sep 1;142(5):515‑24.

*************

Leukemia/Cancer

London SJ; Bowman JD; Sobel E; Thomas DC; Garabrant DH; Pearce

N; Bernstein L; Peters JM. Exposure to magnetic fields among electrical

workers in relation to leukemia risk in Los Angeles County. Am J Ind Med

1994 Jul;26(1):47‑60.

(Higher risk of leukemia & mylenoid leukemia in occup. With more emf)

Breast Cancer

Caplan LS; Schoenfeld ER; O'Leary ES; Leske MC. Breast cancer and

electromagnetic fields‑‑a review. Ann Epidemiol 2000 Jan;10(1):31‑44

Lots of studies that find higher breast cancer in occup. exposed to

EMF(men & women)

‑

Aldinucci C; Palmi M; Sgaragli G; Benocci A; Meini A; Pessina F; Pessina GP. The effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields on the physiologic behaviour of a

human astrocytoma cell line. Biochim Biophys Acta 2000 Dec 11;1499(1‑2):101‑108.

ABSTRACT:

We evaluated the effects of 50 Hz pulsed electromagnetic fields (EMFs) with a

peak magnetic field of 3 mT on human astrocytoma cells. Our results clearly

demonstrate that, after the cells were exposed to EMFs for 24 h, the basal

[Ca(2+)](i) levels increased significantly from 124+/‑51 nM to 200+/‑79 nM.

Pretreatment of the cells with 1.2 microM substance P increased the

[Ca(2+)](i) to 555+/‑278 nM, while EMF exposure caused a significant drop in

[Ca(2+)](i) to 327+/‑146 nM. The overall effect of EMFs probably depends on

the prevailing Ca(2+) conditions of the cells. After exposure, the proliferative

responses of both normal and substance P‑pretreated cells increased slightly

from 1.03 to 1.07 and 1.04 to 1.06, respectively. U‑373 MG cells spontaneously

released about 10 pg/ml of interleukin‑6 which was significantly increased after

the addition of substance P. Moreover, immediately after EMF exposure and

24 h thereafter, the interleukin‑6 levels were more elevated (about 40%) than

in controls. On the whole, our data suggest that, by changing the properties of

cell membranes, EMFs can influence Ca(2+) transport processes and hence

Ca(2+) homeostasis. The increased levels of interleukin‑6 after 24 h of EMF

exposure may confirm the complex connection between Ca(2+) levels,

substance P and the cytokine networ

*********************

Nevertheless, as your question suggests, there are several studies from a number of countries showing that suicide rates among

medical practitioners are higher than those in the general population or in some other professions (Lindeman et al, Psychological

Medicine, Sept. 1997 pp. 1219‑22; Lindeman et al, British Journal of Psychiatry March 1996, ppl 274‑79).

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

EMFs Increase Suicide Rates

This study examined mortality from suicide in relation to

estimated exposure to extremely low‑frequency

electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and found a significant increase

in the risk of suicide.

Researchers studied 138,905 male electric utility workers.

They found a more than doubled risk with electricians and

an almost 60% increase in line workers.

Even stronger associations, up to a 3.5‑fold increase, were

found in men younger than 50.

The authors state that "These data provide evidence for an

association between occupational electromagnetic fields and

suicide that warrants further evaluation." They hypothesize

that this link has something to do with disturbing melatonin

secretion or metabolism.

Western Jounal of Medicine August 2000;173:94‑100

COMMENT: There is no question that EMF exposure should

be avoided as much as possible. The practical issue is to

determine how to avoid it. I have recently located some

relatively inexpensive gauss meters which only cost $40

(800‑497‑9516). I have absolutely no connection with this

firm and if anyone has a better and less expensive device I

would be glad to post that information. Generally, one

should try to keep exposures as low as possible. Ideally,

your sleeping environment and regular sitting places should

be less than 0.3 milligauss.

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS EXERT

EFFECTS ON AND THROUGH

HORMONES

Several years ago, Cindy Sage hired an electrician to install a

new light in her daughter's bedroom. After he left, Sage swept

the room with a gaussmeter to measure the magnetic fields

present. In some 98 percent of U.S. homes, the average

strength of magnetic fields ranges from 0.5 to 0.9 milligauss

(mG). Until the electrician's visit, the field in Sage's daughter's

room also fell within that range. Afterward, it was 3 mG.

Although that reading is somewhat higher than normal, it falls

well below the federally permitted 1,000‑mG limit for U.S.

workplaces. However, this didn't reassure Sage, a Montecito,

Calif based consultant specializing in electromagnetic field

(EMF) issues. The workplace limit "is based on the faulty

assumption that only thermal, or heat, effects are important as

a potential biological hazard," she says.

Sage called the electrician back to find out what he'd done. It

turns out that he hadn't wired the light according to the

electrical code. When he rewired the room, its average field

dropped to 0.2 mG. Electromagnetic fields are invisible lines of

force that surround all electric devices and wiring. Concern

about the potential health effects of these fields was catalyzed

in the late 1970s by studies suggesting an association between

childhood leukemia and proximity to certain types of power

lines or equipment, such as utility transformers.

Several studies suggest "a doubling of childhood leukemia

incidence between 1 and 2 mG" and up to a sixfold increase for

exposures between 4 and 5 mG, says Sage. There have even

been hints of a breast cancer risk in adults exposed to high

fields More recently, several other sources have been added:

large currents on the job, poorly grounded wiring, and

appliances. Magnetic fields do not necessarily correlate with

the size, power, or noisiness of a device. Moreover, there can

be a tremendous difference between models of an appliance.

Because it's difficult to shield oneself from magnetic fields, the

only practical way to limit exposures is to put distance between

oneself and the source.

Sage conducts sweeps of magnetic fields in her clients' homes,

offices, schools, and hospitals. She deploys electricians to fix

any fields that run dramatically above the national norm.

Usually, they trace to code violations that prove easy and

inexpensive to fix. A 1996 report issued by the National

Academy of Sciences concluded that while EMFs appear capable

of affecting biological tissues, their link to cancer remains

unproven. However, Sage argues that until or unless EMFs are

exonerated, avoidance of them is a reasonable policy

Richard G. Stevens of the Department of Energy's Pacific

Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Wash., emphatically

disagrees, arguing that it's premature to sweep homes or even

to advocate prudent avoidance. That's not because he believes

EMFs are necessarily benign. Indeed, he is the father of the

10‑year‑old "melatonin hypothesis", a theory that exposure to

certain EMFs may trigger cancer, especially in the breast, by

perturbing the body's natural concentrations of this brain

hormone.

He says that many questions remain about what types of fields

and features of exposure‑such as timing‑underlie any risks. The

problem with prudent avoidance is that it may make people

less willing to act if the risks are later proved more

circumscribed. Stevens doesn't challenge the idea that fields

can bring about potentially disturbing biological changes.

Indeed, new studies describing such effects were presented 7

weeks ago at a U.S. Public Health Service conference he helped

organize in Washington, D.C. The studies demonstrated a

hitherto unrecognized responsiveness of cells, tissues, and

animals ‑ even humans.

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain during periods of

darkness, is an important natural suppressor of breast cancer

cell growth, both in test tubes and in animals. Stevens'

melatonin hypothesis holds that because EMFs can depress or

shut down melatonin secretion in animals, they may play a role

in fostering the growth of malignancies in people.

To test this hypothesis, toxicologist Wolfgang Loescher of the

School of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover, Germany, has

exposed groups of up to 120 female rats to

melatonin‑suppressing EMFs of between 100 and 1,000 mG. An

equal number of rats received a negligible background exposure

of roughly 1 mG; these rats produced melatonin normally.

Loescher injected into each rat a chemical that causes

mammary cancer, then observed the rats for 3 months.

Compared to the unexposed rats, those in the 100‑mG field

developed about 10 percent more tumors, animals exposed to

500 mG got 25 percent more, and rats receiving 1,000 mG

developed 50 percent more. Tumors also grew as much as twice

the size under the influence of EMFs. To understand why,

Loescher has focused on the immune system's T cells, a class

of white blood cells whose role is to attack and destroy tumors

and foreign substances. T cells from animals raised for 3

months in 500‑ or 1,000‑mG fields proved only half as likely as

those from unexposed rats to proliferate when exposed to a

foreign substance. "This indicates that EMFs indeed suppress

the immune system's response to ongoing processes such as

tumor growth," Loescher says.

He has also analyzed rats' production of the enzyme ornithine

decarboxylase. This enzyme has to be present in large amounts

for any cells to proliferate. "If the melatonin hypothesis were

true, then when one exposes rats to EMFs, there should be an

increase of this enzyme but only in the breast," he says. That

is exactly what he's found in EMF studies that he has replicated

several times. "To me," he told SCIENCE NEWS, "this is the

most convincing data that the melatonin hypothesis may be

true."

At the Lawrence Berkeley (Calif.) National Laboratory, Robert P.

Liburdy has been probing the underpinnings of EMFs' apparent

cancer fostering effects in test‑tube studies of malignant cells.

He has found that 12‑mG EMFs can suppress the ability of both

melatonin and the hormone‑emulating drug tamoxifen to shut

down the growth of cancer cells. In a follow‑up study that he

described in July at a meeting in Bologna, Italy, the activity of

another drug proved even more negatively affected by 12‑mG

fields. Both tamoxifen and this second drug, which goes by the

unwieldy moniker ICI‑182780, are synthetic estrogens. They

have been designed to dock at a cell's estrogen receptor and

block it. In the breast, this can starve most cancer cells of the

estrogen that normally spurs their growth. Unlike the ICI drug,

which interacts only with the estrogen receptor, tamoxifen can

alter the activity of other proteins. Magnetic fields proved more

effective against the ICI drug, implying that they interfere with

its binding to the estrogen receptor, Liburdy says. If they do,

then the body's natural estrogen should be affected similarly.

Tests of that possibility are now under way. Liburdy's studies

suggest that "a new melatonin hypothesis is emerging," argues

Charles Graham, an experimental physiologist at the Midwest

Research Institute (MRI) in Kansas City, Mo. The old

hypothesis, Graham notes, focused on how much melatonin the

body produced and circulated. While reasonable, it downplayed

any relevance for humans because "we saw no decrease in

melatonin" among people exposed to EMFs. If magnetic fields

can make cells less sensitive to melatonin, as studies by

Liburdy and others now indicate, then EMFs may yet pose a

melatonin‑mediated cancer threat, he says.

Graham's own research indicates that magnetic fields can alter

two other hormones that affect cancer risk‑‑estrogen and

testosterone. Compared to measurements taken in the

presence of negligible background fields, overnight exposure of

women to 200‑mG EMFs in the laboratory significantly elevated

estrogen; other studies have shown that elevated exposure to

estrogen over many years can increase a woman's breast

cancer risk. In men, the EMFs reduced testosterone‑a hormone

drop that has been linked to testicular and prostate cancers,

Graham's most intriguing data come from experiments with

what he terms intermittent EMFs. He and Mary R. Cook, also at

MRI, began delivering pulsed exposures that cycle on for an

hour and then off for an hour throughout the night. During each

"on" cycle, the field switches on and off every 15 seconds. Not

only do preliminary studies indicate that intermittent fields

"really have an effect," Graham observes, but they emulate

real‑world exposures, which can vary from second to second in

frequency, intensity, and waveform, depending on their source

and an individual's distance from it.

In a 3‑night study of 24 healthy young men, roughly one‑third

got steady 200 mG exposures on any given night. Another third

received 200‑mG fields intermittently, and the remainder slept

in the presence of negligible background fields. At the Energy

Department's annual EMF Research Review Meeting in San

Diego last November, Graham and Cook reported that the

intermittent fields and only those fields‑disturbed 6 of 10

measures of sleep quality. They not only contributed to broken

sleep and shorter periods of deep, dream‑stage sleep, they

also led to more reports of feeling unrested in the morning.

In an upcoming report in BIOELECTROMAGNETICS, Graham's

team links those same intermittent fields to decreased heart

rate variability in 77 college‑age men. In healthy people, heart

rate tends to vary somewhat from second to second in

response to the body's need to maintain blood pressure,

temperature, and so on. Often, individuals with heart disease

exhibit a more stable heart rate‑‑‑an indication, Graham says,

"that their heart is no longer as well connected to the nervous

system."

While the young men that Graham studied exhibited normal

heart rate variability during the nights they were exposed to

background fields or constant EMFs, that variability diminished

substantially on the night each was exposed to intermittent

fields. Graham is planning follow‑up studies to probe the

long‑term health implications of this provocative finding.

"What concerns me," Graham says, is that the public "tends to

get so worried about the magnitude of a field. The bigger it is,

the worse it's supposed to be." In fact, Loescher has found that

very high fields, as well as those below a certain strength,

have little impact on tumor growth. Only those across a

relatively narrow range consistently foster tumors and other

negative health effects.

"We've seen the same thing in our studies," Graham told

SCIENCE NEWS. Moreover, he says, it's beginning to appear

that a field's magnitude matters less than its intermittency or

other features, such as power surges called electrical

transients. These surges can pack a big burst of energy into a

short period of time. They occur whenever lights or other

electric devices turn on, when motors or compressors (such as

those in refrigerators and air conditioners) cycle on, or when

dimmer switches operate. "Being transient doesn't mean

they're rare, just quick," Graham notes. Transients are hard to

avoid because they may stem from surges elsewhere‑in a

neighbor's house or even power lines up the street.

Little research has been conducted to untangle the potential

health impacts of EMF characteristics other than field strength,

Graham notes, and money for such EMF studies is all but drying

up. The two major federal programs dedicated to financing

research on EMF effects on health are slated to shut down in

October. A program funded by electric utilities through the

Electric Power Research Institute will also end this year.

One should expect that "research on EMFs in the United States

will take a big nose‑dive," says Graham. One ray of hope,

Liburdy notes, comes from the recent proliferation of

government funds for endocrine‑disrupting pollutants. While

magnetic fields are a type of radiation, they functionally

resemble many environmental pollutants that mimic hormones.

In fact, he observes, EMFs may actually fit the definition of an

endocrine disrupter better than these chemicals do. That's

because magnetic fields appear to elicit their effects by acting

on and through hormones, rather than as hormones.

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

Are EMFs Hazardous to Our Health?

Can electromagnetic fields (EMF) from power lines, home

wiring, airport and military radar, substations, transformers,

computers and appliances cause brain tumors, leukemia, birth

defects, miscarriages, chronic fatigue, headaches, cataracts,

heart problems, stress. nausea, chest pain, forgetfulness,

cancer and other health problems? Numerous studies have

produced contradictory results, yet some experts are convinced

that the threat is real.

Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State

University of New York believes it is likely that up to 30% of all

childhood cancers come from exposure to EMFs. The

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns "There is reason

for concern" and advises prudent avoidance". Martin Halper, the

EPA's Director of Analysis and Support says "I have never seen

a set of epidemiological studies that remotely approached the

weight of evidence that we're seeing with EMFs. Clearly there is

something here."

Concern over EMFs exploded after Paul Brodeur wrote a series

of articles in the New Yorker Magazine in June 1989. Because

of Paul Brodeur's reputation. his articles had a catalytic effect

on scientists, reporters and concerned people throughout the

world. In November 1989, the Department of Energy reported

that "It has now become generally accepted that there are,

indeed, biological effects due to field exposure." The EMF issue

gained more publicity in 1990 when alarming reports appeared

in Time, the Wall Street Journal, Business Week and popular

computer publications. ABC's Ted Koppel and CBS's Dan Rather

both aired special segments on EMFs.

In addition to the long‑term health concerns, buying a house

with high fields will be an economic disaster. In a few years,

when power line radiation is as well known as asbestos and

radon, a house with high fields will be practically impossible to

sell. Already there are hundreds of lawsuits regarding EMFs and

property devaluation.

EPA Says the Threat Is Real

By 1990, over one hundred studies had been conducted

worldwide. Of these, at least two dozen epidemiological

studies on humans indicated a link between EMFs and serious

health problems. In response to public pressure, the

Environmental Protection Agency IEPA) began reviewing and

evaluating the available literature. In a draft report issued in

March 1990, the EPA recommended that EMFs be classified as a

Class B carcinogen‑‑‑a "probable human carcinogen and joined

the ranks of formaldehyde, DDT, dioxins and PCBs.

After the EPA draft report was released, utility, military and

computer lobbyists came down hard on the EPA. The EPA's final

revision did NOT classify EMFs as a Class B carcinogen Rather,

the following explanation was added:"At this time such a

characterization regarding the link between cancer and

exposure to EMFs is not appropriate because the basic nature

of the interaction between EMFs and biological processes

leading to cancer is not understood " Curiously, this rather

unusual logic appears on the same page as the following: "In

conclusion, several studies showing leukemia, Iymphoma and

cancer of the nervous system in children exposed to supported

by similar findings in adults in several/ occupational studies

also involving electrical power frequency exposures, show a

consistent pattern of response that suggest a causal link. "

When questioned about the contradictory nature of these

statements, the EPA responded that it was "not appropriate" to

use the probable carcinogen label until it could demonstrate

how EMFs caused cancer and exactly how much EMF is harmful.

This explanation does not satisfy many critics who claim that

the EPAs upper management was influenced by political and

economic considerations exerted by utility, computer and

military lobbyists.

How Do I Measure EMFs?

A Gauss is a common unit of measurement of magnetic field

strength. A Gauss meter is an instrument which measures the

strength of magnetic fields. Inside a Gauss meter there is a

coil of thin wire, typically with hundreds of turns. As a magnetic

field radiates through the coil, it induces a current, which is

amplified by the circuitry inside the Gauss meter.

Gauss meters may vary in the strength of the magnetic field

they are capable of measuring. A meter used for measuring

EMFs from power lines, transformers, substations and

appliances around the home, for example, should be able to

measure as low as .1 mg.

Gauss meters vary widely in price and accuracy. Meters have

either a single axis coil or a triple axis coil. Single axis meters

are much simpler than triple axis meters to manufacture and

thus, are less expensive. To use a single axis meter you must

point the meter's one sensor in three directions‑‑‑the x, y and z

axis. Then, you combine the three readings in a mathematical

equation to calculate the combined field strength. Obviously,

its far easier and more accurate to use a 3‑axis meter. Triple

axis Gauss meters are quite accurate, but they are also more

expensive.

Another thing to watch out for when purchasing or renting a

Gauss meter is whether or not it is frequency weighted. Most

meters will read the same EMF strength no mater what the

frequency. As the human body appears to be sensitive to both

the field strength AND the frequency, Gauss meters used for

biological purposes should be "frequency weighted". This

means that if the field is different than 60 Hz the meter will

consider the frequency and use it in calculating and displaying

the EMF's strength. This feature is why frequency weighted

meters will show a higher EMF reading than those meters

typically used by electricians and engineers.

Power Lines

An enormous amount of electricity is created at power

generating stations and sent across the country through wires

that carry high voltages. All power lines radiate

electromagnetic fields. The question is: how much are the

power lines near YOUR home radiating? The amount of EMFs

coming from a power line depends on its particular

configuration. Power companies know which power line

configurations are best for reducing EMFs but most don't feel

the evidence supports costly changes in the way they deliver

electricity.

Substations

A substation is an assemblage of circuit breakers,

disconnecting switches and transformers designed to

substations have been blamed for causing cancer clusters

among nearby residents. Paul Brodeur wrote about several such

cancer clusters in the July 9, 1990 issue of the New Yorker

Magazine.

Transformers

A key component of a utility's electrical distribution network

depends upon numerous, small transformers mounted on power

poles. A transformer looks like a small metal trash can, usually

cylindrical. Even when the electrical service is underground, you

will often see a metal box (usually square} located on the

ground near the street. Many people don't realize that when

they see a transformer, the power line feeding the transformer

is 4000 to 13,800 volts. The transformer then reduces the

voltage to the 120/240 volts needed by nearby homes. Since

these transformers can be seen in almost every neighborhood,

they are a source of concern.

EMFs near a transformer can be quite high, but due to its small

structure, the field strength diminishes rapidly with distance,

as it does from any point source. For this reason, having a

transformer located near your home is usually not a major

source of concern, although just to make sure, everyone should

measure the field strength around it.

Home Wiring

If your home has high EMF readings, it is important to

determine the sources of the EMF so that remedial action can

be taken, if possible. Many times a particular room will have a

higher EMF reading. Check to see if the electricity is coming

into the house on the wall outside that room. When this is the

case, it is usually a good idea to block off that room and only

use it for storage purposes.

Sometimes, the source of a high magnetic field is incorrect

wiring. If you suspect that your home is wired improperly,

obtain the services of a licensed electrician. Warning: Do not

touch electric wires, even if you think the current is turned off.

If you need to disconnect electrical circuits to determine the

source of magnetic fields, you should call a licensed electrician.

Computers

Computers are a complicated subject. Know this: EMFs radiate

from all sides of the computer. Thus, you must not only be

concerned with sitting in front of the monitor but also if you are

sitting near a computer or if a computer is operating in a

nearby room. The Swedish safety standard, effective 711/90,

specifies a maximum of 0.25 mG at 50 cm from the display.

Many US manufactured computers have EMFs of 5 ‑ 100 mG at

this distance. And know this too: the screens placed over

monitors do NOT block EMFs. Not even a lead screen will block

ELF and VLF magnetic fields.

Space does not permit a more thorough discussion of

computers. If you use a computer, it is important that you

measure your EMF exposure with a Gauss meter and review the

literature concerning the health impacts of computer use.

Electric Blankets and Waterbeds

Electric blankets create a magnetic field that penetrates about

6‑7 inches into the body. Thus it is not surprising that an

epidemiological study has linked electric blankets with

miscarriages and childhood leukemia. This pioneering work was

performed by Dr. Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who

originally discovered that magnetic fields were linked to

childhood leukemia. Similar health effects have been noted

with users of many electric blankets and waterbed heaters will

emit EMFs even when turned off. The devices must be

unplugged to delete the EMF exposure Additionally, there is the

issue regarding the vibrations that are generated by sleeping

on standing water. There is less hard data in this area but

some experts are concerned about the consequences.

Electric Clocks

Electric clocks have a very high magnetic field, as much as 5 to

10 mG up to three feet away. If you are using a bedside clock,

you are probably sleeping in an EMF equivalent to that of a

powerline Studies have linked high rates of brain tumors with

chronic exposure to magnetic fields, so it is wise to place all

clocks and other electrical devices (such as telephones and

answering devices) at least 6 feet from your bed.

Fluorescent Lights

Fluorescent lights produce much more EMFs than incandescent

bulbs. A typical fluorescent lamp of a office

ceiling have readings of 160 to 200 mg 1 inch away.

Microwave Ovens and Radar

Microwave ovens and radar from military installations and

airports emit two types of radiation‑‑microwave and ELF.

Microwaves are measured in milliwatt per centimeter squared

(mW/cm2) As of 1/1/93, the U.S. safety limit for microwave

exposure is 1 mW/cm2, down from a previous 10 mW/cm2. The

Russian safety limit is .01 mW/cm2. As all microwave ovens

leak and exceed the Russian safety limit, microwave ovens

have been outlawed in Russia. In addition, recent Russian

studies have shown that normal microwave cooking coverts

food protein molecules into carcinogenic substances.

When measuring microwaves from military and airport radar

sources, 100% accurate readings can only be found

with extremely expensive digital peak‑hold meters. Why?

Because analog devices begin to drop their reading

immediately after the radar sweep passes. Thus, while an

analog meter can show whether or not you are being exposed

to radar EMFs, analog meters can't show your true exposure.

Although thousands of dollars to purchase, digital‑hold meters

capable of accurately detecting radar EMFs can be rented for

several hundred to over a thousand dollars per month.

Telephones and Answering Machines

Telephones can emit surprisingly strong EMFs, especially from

the handset. This is a problem because we hold the telephone

so close to our head. Place the Gauss meter right against the

ear piece and the mouth piece before buying a phone. Some

brands emit no measurable fields and others emit strong fields

that travel several inches....right into your brain. Answering

machines, particular those with adapter plugs

(mini‑transformers), give off high levels of EMFs.

Electric Razors and Hair Dryers

Electric razors and hair dryers emit EMFs as high as 200 to 400

mG. This seems alarming, but we don't know if this is worse (or

better) than a chronic exposure to a 2‑3 mG field. Some EMF

consultants recommend that hair dryers not be used on children

as the high fields are held close to their rapidly developing

brain and nervous system.

Prudent Avoidance

Electricity is an inseparable part of our modern day society.

This means that EMFs will continue to be all around us. But as

Discover Magazine postulated, aside from making our life

easier, is electricity also making our lives shorter?

Most experts agree that limited, non‑chronic exposure to EMFs

is not a threat. For example, it is probably acceptable for a

person to be near a toaster in the morning. BUT, it is not

advisable for a person to sleep under an electric blanket, up

close, live near a powerline/substation, and sleep in a room

where the power enters the home. This person is under an

extreme case of chronic exposure. This condition,

unfortunately, applies to millions of Americans.

If you wish to follows the EPA's advice and practice "prudent

avoidance" then the following advice is offered:

Measure your home, work and school environments with a

Gauss meter Measure EMFs both inside and outside your home.

Don't let your children play near power lines, transformers,

radar domes and microwave towers. Avoid areas where the field

is above 1 mG. Measure the EMFs from appliances both when

they are operating and when they are turned off. Some

appliances (like TVs) are still drawing current even when they

are off.

Don't sleep under an electric blanket or on a waterbed. If you

insist on using these, unplug them before going to bed (don't

just turn it off). Even though there is no magnetic field when

they are turned off, there may still be a high electric field.

Don't sit too close to your TV set. Distance yourself at least 6

feet away. Use a Gauss meter to help you decide where it is

safe to sit.

Rearrange your office and home area so that you are not

exposed to EMFs from the sides/backs of electric appliances

and computers. In the home, it is best that all major electrical

appliances, such as computers, TVs, refrigerators etc, be placed

up against outside walls. That way you are not creating an EMF

field in the adjoining room.

Don't sit too close to your computer. Computer monitors vary

greatly in the strength of their EMFs, so you should check yours

with a meter. Don't stand close to your microwave oven. Move

all electrical appliances at least 6 feet from your bed. Eliminate

wires running under your bed. Eliminate dimmers and 3‑way

switches.

Be wary of cordless appliances such as electric toothbrushes

and razors. You may choose not to wear a quartz‑analog watch

because it radiates pulsating EMFs along your acupuncture

meridians. An older mechanical windup watch would be an

acceptable alternative. It is also recommended to wear as little

jewelry as possible and to take it off at night. Many people

have metal sensitivity which can be aggravated by placing it

right on the skin. Measure with a gauss meter to be sure. And

last, but not least, always always always remember that EMFs

pass right through walls. The EMF you are reading on your

Gauss meter could be radiating from the next room...or from

outside your home.

Additional Radiation Info:

Eyeglass frames should ideally be made from plastic with no

wires in them, otherwise they can serve as an antenna to focus

the radio and cellular phone waves directly into your brain.

What EMF Level Is Safe?

There's a heated debate as to what electromagnetic field (EMF)

level is considered safe. Since the experts have not come to an

consensus, you'll have to decide for yourself... Many

government and utility documents report the usual ambient

level of 60‑Hz magnetic field to be 0.5 mG. Thus, any reading

higher than 0.5 mG is above the "usual" ambient exposure.

Many experts and public officials, as well as the few

governments that have made an effort to offer public

protection, have adopted the 3 mG cutoff point. The EPA has

proposed a safety standard of 1 mG. Sweden has set a

maximum safety limit of 1 mG.

Dr. Robert Becker, an MD who has been studying the effects of

EMFs for 20 years, states a lmG safety limit in his book Cross

Currents. When electricians try to solve a magnetic field

problem they do their best to drop the level to 1 mG or below.

Dr. Nancy Wertheimer, a Ph.D. epidemiologist who has been

studying EMFs for 20 years, has been looking at the

epidemiological data in a different way‑‑she is trying to

associate EMF levels with

health rather than disease. The level she is coming up with is a

cut off of 1 mG. Russian researchers claim that 1/1000ths of a

mG should be the standard.

The BioElectric Body believes that there are several stages of

health between "optimum wellness", "degenerative disease"

and "Cancer". Thus, we maintain our own living and sleeping

quarters at 0.5mG and below.