Maternal proximity to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields and risk of birth defects

Authors: Auger N, Arbour L, Luo W, Lee GE, Bilodeau-Bertrand M, Kosatsky T

Year: 2019 Apr 11

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Eur J Epidemiol

DOI: 10.1007/s10654-019-00518-1

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30977029

Abstract

Overview

The link between birth defects and maternal exposure to electromagnetic fields from power grids is explored in this study focusing on a large population sample in Quebec, Canada.

Study Details

  • A total of 2,164,246 infants born between 1989 and 2016 were analyzed.
  • The distances from the maternal residential postal code to the nearest high voltage electrical transmission line or transformer station were computed.
  • Log-binomial regression models adjusted for maternal and infant characteristics were used to estimate risk ratios (RR) and confidence intervals (CI).

Findings

The prevalence of birth defects for infants born within 200 meters of a transmission line was slightly higher than those further away. However, a closer proximity of 50 meters did not significantly increase the risk of birth defects when considering transmission lines or transformer stations.

Specific Findings:

  • No consistent association was observed for birth defects in different organ systems.
  • No compelling evidence was found that suggests a significant increase in birth defect risk due to proximity to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields.

Conclusion

Despite slightly elevated risks at shorter distances, there is no conclusive evidence linking maternal proximity to electromagnetic fields and an increased risk of birth defects. Women living near such power grids should be reassured of the minimal impact on birth defect risks.

birth defects electromagnetic fields epidemiology birth outcomes power grids health risks
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