A few studies concentrated on the effects of electrical (“power frequency”) electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on the human brain function and nervous system (Savitz et al., 1998; Hakansson et al., 2003, Feychting et al., 2003; Qiu et al., 2004). These studies clearly established that there is a strong and consistent relationship between exposure to electrical EMFs and various types of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is also a type of motor neuron disease. The studies of Savitz, Hakansson and Feychting furnish ample evidence on the relationship between electrical EMF exposure and Alzheimer’s disease, while the study by Hakansson proves the relationship between exposure of electrical EMFs and ALS. Various other studies had also confirmed the link between electrical EMF exposure and ALS and Alzheimer’s disease (Johansen, 2000, 2001, 2004; Ahlbom, 2001; Park et al., 2005).
The studies focused on the death of certain neurons in the brain, leading to the above-mentioned neurodegenerative diseases. The major risk factor in Alzheimer’s disease is the presence of amyloid beta in high levels. electrical EMF exposure had been found to increase the level of amyloid beta in the brain significantly, thus elevating the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Melatonin protects the brain against any neuron damage, thus reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Since exposure to electrical EMFs reduce melatonin levels, increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease results. A recent meta-analysis that comprised of 14 epidemiological studies confirmed the relationship between occupational electrical EMF and Alzheimer’s disease (Garcia, 2008). The risk in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia was higher in people living near power lines, a study revealed (Huss, 2008). According to the study, the longer the exposure to electrical EMFs, the higher the risks increase for dementia.
Moreover, long-term exposure to electrical EMFs have been found to alter the levels of calcium (Ca2+) in neurons and also induce oxidative stress. Similarly prolonged exposure to electrical EMFs can stimulate neurons in synchronous firing, resulting in toxin build-up and damage to the neurons, particularly to the large motor neurons.
Most homes and workplaces will have electrical EMF radiation hot spots that can easily exceed the exposure levels known to impact on you and your family’s health eg. near electrical devices, power meter boxes, wiring behind walls etc. EMF Safe recommends all homes and workplaces be tested for all electrical and wireless EMF radiation exposures. Often simple changes can be made to reduce or avoid elevated exposures when they are found. EMF Safe rents EMF Detection Kits nationwide that are excellent for this purpose and come with easy to follow instructions including safety reference levels.
Ahlbom A (2001), Neurodegenerative diseases, suicide and depressive symptoms in relation to EMF Bioelectromagnetics (Suppl 5):S132-43.
Feychting M et al (2003), Occupational magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative disease Epidemiology 14(4): 413-9.
García AM et al (2008), Occupational exposure to extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields and Alzheimer disease: a meta-analysis Int J Epidemiol 37(2):329-40.
Huss A et al (2008), Residence near Power Lines and Mortality from Neurodegenerative Diseases: Longitudinal Study of the Swiss Population Am J Epidem 169(2):167-75.
Johansen C (2000), Exposure to electromagnetic fields and risk of central nervous system disease in utility workers Epidemiology 11(5): 539-43.
Johansen C (2001), Exposure to electromagnetic fields and risk of central nervous system diseases among employees at Danish electric companies Ugeskr Laeger 164(1):50-4.
Johansen C (2004), Electromagnetic fields and health effects – epidemiologic studies of cancer, diseases of the central nervous system and arrhythmia-related heart disease Scand J Work Environ Health 30(Suppl 1): 1-30.
Hakansson N et al (2003), Neurodegenerative diseases in welders and other workers exposed to high levels of magnetic fields Epidemiology 14(4): 420-6.
Park RM, Schulte PA, Bowman JD, Walker JT, Bondy SC, Yost MG, Touchstone JA, Dosemeci M. (2005), Potential occupational risks for neurodegenerative diseases. Am J Ind Med 2005;48:63-77.
Qiu C, Fratiglioni L, Karp A, Winblad B, Bellander T. (2004), Occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields and risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Epidemiology 2004;15:687-694.
Savitz DA, Loomis DP, Tse CK. (1998) Electrical occupations and neurodegenerative disease: Analysis of U.S. mortality data. Arch Environ Health 1998;53:71-74.