Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the impact of chronic exposure to a 50-Hz magnetic field on Chromogranin A (CgA) levels in humans. CgA is significant as it is a marker found in neuroendocrine tumors and is linked to stress levels.

Methodology

• Daily exposure was measured in 15 men (averaged age 38.0 ± 0.9 years), over periods ranging from 1 to 20 years.
• Exposure measurements were taken using EMDEX II dosimeters, recording magnetic fields every 30 seconds for one week.
• Blood samples were collected hourly from 20:00 h to 08:00 h to analyze CgA levels.

Findings

Exposed subjects’ CgA levels were compared with those of 15 unexposed men serving as controls. Despite the long-term exposure, there was no significant impairment in CgA levels; however, a trend towards lower levels was observed at exposure greater than 0.3 μT.

Conclusion

The research concludes that chronic exposure to ELF-EMF does not significantly affect CgA levels in the general adult male population though potential risks for more vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, should not be disregarded.