Impact of exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on blood pressure, heart rate variation and disturbance to quality of sleep on industrial workers in Korea
Abstract
Overview
This study investigates the potential health risks associated with exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs), with a primary focus on their impact on sleep quality. The underlying hypothesis is that increased ELF-MF exposure will be linked to:
- Elevated blood pressure (BP)
- Altered heart rate (HR) dynamics
- Poorer sleep quality
among occupational workers in Korea.
Methods
The study was conducted with 85 participants. Researchers assessed ELF-MF exposure continuously for 24 hours in two groups. During this period, BP parameters, HR, and sleep quality were measured to evaluate health outcomes.
Findings
- Significant ELF-MF exposure levels were recorded during both working and sleeping times for industrial factory workers (0.19 ± 0.38 and 0.17 ± 0.23 μT, p < 0.05).
- Long-term ELF-MF exposure correlated with a significant difference in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (125.61 ± 9.60 mm Hg, p < 0.05).
- Deep sleep analysis revealed a significant difference between high-exposure and low-exposure groups (67.13 ± 31.15 min, p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The study confirmed the hypothesis, indicating that high exposure to ELF-MFs may raise systolic blood pressure and disturb deep sleep in industrial workers. The results demonstrate a clear link between increased ELF-MF exposure and adverse health impacts, particularly on sleep quality and cardiovascular function. Notably, further research is recommended to validate the long-term effects of ELF-MF exposure and the potential for chronic sleep quality disturbances.