Modern health worries and exposure perceptions of individuals reporting varying levels of sensitivity to electromagnetic fields: results of two successive surveys

Authors: Ledent M, Vatovez B, Roelandt P, Bordarie J, Dieudonné M, De Waegeneer E, Kremer C, Boucher L, Bouland C, De Clercq EM

Year: 2025 Feb 19

Category: Public Health, Epidemiology

Journal: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1536167

URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1536167/full

Abstract

Overview

Individuals who report being affected by idiopathic environmental intolerance attributed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) frequently experience symptoms that they link to EMF exposure. The uncertain causes of these symptoms often leave sufferers searching for their own care solutions.

  • In today’s connected societies, those claiming EMF sensitivity may limit exposure, leading to avoidance behaviors that can negatively impact overall health.
  • This study aimed to improve understanding of people reporting EMF sensitivity, examining their modern health worries (MHW), behaviors, and perceptions of exposure, particularly during COVID-19 lockdowns—a period marked by altered habits and increased device use.

Methods

Two surveys were carried out during the relaxed lockdown periods in Belgium (June/July 2020 and February/March 2021). In total, 97 and 285 participants, respectively, responded to questionnaires covering sensitivity to EMFs, MHW, exposure perception, and strategies for limiting EMF exposure. Researchers employed nonparametric descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses.

Findings

  • Greater sensitivity to EMFs was associated with higher worries about modern health threats from EMF sources and the adoption of more strategies to limit exposure.
  • Despite these strategies, many highly sensitive individuals continued to feel significantly exposed to EMFs.

Conclusion

  • People perceiving high sensitivity to EMFs report significant distress, social isolation, and professional challenges.
  • Exposure avoidance strategies show questionable relevance, as avoidance did not correspond with reduced perceived exposure or health improvement.
  • The study highlights a crucial link between EMF exposure, perceived health risks, and psychological and social wellbeing. Further exploration of alternative care options is recommended.
electromagnetic fields EMF sensitivity modern health worries exposure perception avoidance behavior public health COVID-19 lockdown
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