Electromagnetic Fields 101: How to Protect Yourself From EMF Health Problems
With the advent of mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, smart appliances, and other modern conveniences that connect us to the world at large, we are all exposed to the unseen danger of electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Scientists and experts have warned us time and again of the potential risks associated with EMFs, while others have argued that there’s no evidence of harm. With the debate on EMFs still raging, it’s time to learn from reliable sources whether it’s something we should be concerned about and what we should be doing to protect ourselves.
What Are Electromagnetic Fields?
EMFs are invisible areas of energy that radiate from any source that is electrically charged. Electromagnetic radiation is everywhere and comes in many forms, ranging from natural sources to manmade sources.
Natural sources include electrical charges from thunderstorms and lightning, and even the earth’s own magnetic field emanating from the core of our planet. But it’s man-made sources of EMFs that have recently become concerning for doctors and researchers because it is literally everywhere.
“The electromagnetic spectrum includes fields generated by human-made sources,
Types of EMFs
EMFs are classified based on their frequency or wavelength. Low-frequency EMFs, which are below 300 hertz (Hz), include power lines, electrical wiring, and home appliances like TVs, refrigerators, and washing machines.
Medium-to-high frequency EMFs, above 300 Hz, include microwaves, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, smart meters and mobile phones. Within this range, the higher the frequency, the more energy the radiation contains, which makes it potentially more harmful.
Notably, some EMFs, like radio waves, can travel longer distances and pass through many materials, including the walls in your home.
EMFs are not inherently harmful. However, when they hit the human body, they can disturb or change normal body functions at the cellular level, leading to possible health risks.
The Potential Health Concerns of Electromagnetic Fields
The effects of EMFs on humans are widespread, and many studies have found various negative impacts on our health. For example, long-term exposure to EMFs may cause cancer, DNA damage, infertility, and other health problems. Additionally, some people are more susceptible to the effects of EMFs than others, particularly children, pregnant women, and those with implanted pacemakers.
On the flip side, some researchers argue there is no clear link between EMFs and health concerns.
Researchers continue to debate just how widespread these potential effects could be, and there are dozens of studies evaluating electromagnetic fields. It’s important to draw your own conclusions and make your own self-assessment of your risk tolerance. Here are a few examples of recent research for you to consider to make your own decisions:
- The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified some EMFs as a potential carcinogen
- International research of thousands of cellphone users has linked cellphone radiation to increased risks of some cancer
- Exposure to EMFs may disrupt cognitive health, including raising your risks of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
How to Reduce Your Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields
While the debate on the health risks of EMFs continues, it’s always wise to take some precautions to reduce exposure to potentially harmful fields.
Because EMFs are literally everywhere in our modern world, you can’t avoid them completely. But you can take steps to understand your exposure level in order to decrease it.
“You can check EMF levels in your home with an EMF meter,” explains Healthline. “These handheld devices can be purchased online. But be aware that most can’t measure EMFs of very high frequencies, and their accuracy is generally low, so their efficacy is limited. You can also call your local power company to schedule an on-site reading.”
Other ways to reduce your EMF exposure include:
- Limiting the time you spend on your mobile phone and other devices, particularly during nighttime when your body is resting (e.g., do not store your phone under your pillow while you sleep)
- Rearranging your home so that the areas you spend the most time in, such as your living room, do not also have high-EMF devices like your Internet router
- Turning off all electrical devices when they’re not in use
- Switching to a landline instead of a mobile phone
- Investing in EMF shielding devices, such as screen protectors, anti-radiation cases, and specialized headsets
EMFs are all around us, and while some are essential for modern living, others pose a risk to our health. We can take necessary measures to limit our exposure to harmful EMFs by being mindful of how much time we spend using electronic devices and being proactive about reducing our exposure. As scientists continue to research the health effects of EMFs, it’s wise to remain informed and up to date on the latest findings to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
References:
- https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-electromagnetic-fields
- https://www.iarc.who.int/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/pr208_E.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20483835/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006899316301330
- https://www.healthline.com/health/emf