The lack of international and national health policies to protect persons with self-declared electromagnetic hypersensitivity

Abstract

Overview

Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), also known as idiopathic environmental intolerance attributed to electromagnetic fields (IEI-EMF) or microwave sickness, is currently not recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a condition caused by electromagnetic fields (EMF). Despite this, it is a significant issue as estimates suggest 1-10% of the population might experience some form of EHS.

Findings

• The lack of recognition and diagnostic criteria for EHS means estimates of its prevalence could be inaccurate, either under or overestimated.
• A substantial portion of the human population is exposed to EMF, raising concerns about the potential health impacts and the possibility of developing EHS, even if the individual risk may appear small.
• The symptoms of EHS can be severe, severely affecting daily life.
• Current international and national documents do not show efforts toward developing health policies for EHS.

Conclusion

Despite the ambiguous origins of EHS, the WHO, alongside ICNIRP and IEEE-ICES, should push for more research to understand potential causes and establish diagnostic and mitigation strategies. It is crucial for global health policies to recognize and address the well-being impairment caused by EHS symptoms, advocating for the development of a unified health policy approach.