Review of biological effects of EMF in intermediate frequency range (300 Hz to 1 MHz)

Authors: Bodewein L, Schmiedchen K, Dechent D, Stunder D, Graefrath D, Winter L, Kraus T, Driessen S

Year: 2019 Jan 9

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Environ Res

DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.01.015

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30690271

Abstract

Overview

The proliferation of devices emitting electric fields (EF), magnetic fields (MF), and electromagnetic fields (EMF) within the intermediate frequency (IF) range, such as induction cookers and wireless power transfer systems, has raised concerns about their potential biological impacts. This systematic review aimed to assess the current research landscape regarding these effects and identify any associated adverse health outcomes.

Methods

Followed PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews.
Assessed study quality with the OHAT Risk of Bias Rating Tool.

Findings

The analysis covered 56 eligible studies focusing on various biological systems, mainly under MF exposure. Results varied, with several studies reporting no effects, while others suggested adverse impacts from IF range exposures. Notably, the majority of studies used field strengths surpassing the ICNIRP's safety thresholds for the general populace, with most operations under 100 kHz.

Conclusion

The evidence pointing toward adverse effects from IF exposures remains inconclusive due to the diversity in study designs, endpoints, and the heterogeneous nature of findings, compounded by frequent methodological flaws across studies. Future research should aim for more systematic exploration, focusing on various frequencies, field strengths, and acute effects, crucial for validating ICNIRP's reference levels. Rigorous study designs and risk minimization should be prioritized.

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