Non-cancer EMF effects related to children

Abstract

Potential adverse effects of electromagnetic field exposure on the developing child have been discussed during the last decades. Effects during fetal development could have major consequences and possibly lead to various adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study summarizes the evidence on adverse pregnancy outcomes in relation to extremely low frequency (ELF) and radiofrequency (RF) exposures and briefly discusses other potential health effects, excluding cancer, following childhood exposures to these fields. Most studies of ELF exposures have not demonstrated any consistent risk increases for adverse pregnancy outcomes, but limitations in the exposure assessment methods and very limited power to study high exposure levels prevents any conclusions. Findings of an increased risk of spontaneous abortion in relation to maximum magnetic field exposures in two studies need to be confirmed. Studies of RF exposure have mostly been limited to physiotherapists and although some positive findings have been reported, no specific type of malformation or other adverse outcome has been consistently reported. Different types of symptoms and effects on cognitive function in relation to both ELF and RF fields have been reported in adults, but scientific studies have not confirmed that these symptoms are caused by the electromagnetic fields. No information is available for children.