Effect of Extremely Low-Frequency (ELF) Electromagnetic Fields on Musculoskeletal Disorders and Role of Oxidative Stress

Authors: Hosseinabadi MB, Khanjani N

Year: Published online June 18, 2019

Category: Bioelectromagnetics

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.22198

URL: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/bem.22198

Abstract

Overview

Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) may cause negative health effects. This study aimed to investigate direct and indirect effects of chronic exposure to extremely low-frequency electric and magnetic fields on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Methodology

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 152 power plant workers.
  • Exposure levels were measured according to the IEEE Std C95.3.1 standard.
  • Several biomarkers including Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (Cat), and others were measured in subjects' serum.

Findings

The mean exposure levels were 4.09 V/m for electric fields and 16.27 µT for magnetic fields. A direct significant relationship was found between increased levels of oxidative stress markers (e.g., SOD, Cat, GPx, and MDA) and MSDs.

In logistic regression, significant predictors of MSDs included SOD, GPx, and MDA.

Conclusion

Direct exposure to ELF-EMFs was not linked to MSDs explicitly. However, increased oxidative stress, potentially exacerbated by ELF-EMFs, may contribute to the development of MSDs, highlighting potential health risks associated with ELF-EMFs exposure.

ELF electromagnetic fields musculoskeletal disorders oxidative stress power plant workers health risks
← Back to Stats