Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

The study explores the uncharted relationship between residential proximity to high voltage power lines and female infertility. This pertinent health concern needed rigorous assessment since the impact of electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by these power installations could potentially harm reproductive health.

Findings

• The research accommodated a case-control study with 462 women having unexplained infertility or associated behavioral and environmental factors contrasted with 471 control subjects devoid of infertility. Investigations spanned from February 2014 to December 2016.
• Using GIS and Google Earth, distances were meticulously measured; remarkably, 112 (14.1%) residences of case subjects were within 500 meters of high voltage lines. Women residing within 500 meters were found to have a significantly enhanced risk (Odds Ratio: 4.44) of infertility compared to those beyond 1000 meters.
• Adjusted for confounding variables, proximity within 500 meters greatly intensified the risk of infertility.

Conclusion

Findings prompt vital concern regarding the adequacy of current EMF exposure safety guidelines, suggesting that they may not sufficiently shield the public from the potential dangers, particularly regarding female reproductive health and infertility.