Why the psychogenic or psychosomatic theories for electrohypersensitivity causality should be abandoned, but not the hypothesis of a nocebo-associated symptom formation caused by EMF conditioning in some patients
Abstract
Study Overview
This study critiques the psychogenic or psychosomatic theories previously used to explain electrohypersensitivity (EHS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), proposing instead a nocebo effect related to EMF conditioning.
Key Findings
- The response by Pitron et al. is criticized for relying on unproven psychogenic theories rather than concrete experimental data.
- Historical precedents like tuberculosis and autism were initially attributed to psychosomatic causes before being linked to biological or environmental factors.
Conclusion
The study argues for the abandonment of inadequate psychogenic theories in favor of recognizing potential EMF-related health impacts through conditioning, advocating for the adoption of precautionary measures to protect vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children from electromagnetic pollution.