Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

Understanding the exposure to intermediate frequency (IF) electromagnetic fields (EMFs), particularly from household appliances like induction cookers, is crucial for assessing potential health risks. This study aims to estimate the exposure of pregnant women to IF-EMFs from induction cookers.

Method

• Development of an exposure estimation model through two main home-visit surveys.
• Inclusion of variables such as wattage, cookware diameter, and distance from the hob center in the model.
• Construction of four models to examine variable importance and general applicability in epidemiological contexts.

Findings

Average magnetic field measured was 0.23 μT, indicating potential exposure scenarios. Spearman rank correlation tests were used to validate the models, showing correlation coefficients between 0.22 and 0.75.

Conclusion

Although no significant differences were found between the models, the results highlight the importance of considering various factors such as distance, wattage, and cookware diameter in estimations. This study contributes to understanding IF-EMF exposure from induction cookers and its implications for epidemiological research on EMFs.