Investigating the Effects of Occupational Noise and Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure on Oxidative Response in Power Plant Workers

Authors: Jafarimanesh S, Ehsani H, Shaki F, Moosazadeh M, Samaei SE

Year: 2025 Oct

Category: Occupational Health, Environmental Health

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.70027

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41104887/

Abstract

Overview

Occupational noise and extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) are common in power plants and represent important risk factors that may contribute to oxidative stress. This study examined how simultaneous exposure to these hazards affects oxidative stress biomarkers in workers under real-world conditions.

Methods

  • Participants were assigned to one of four exposure groups: Control (C), Noise (N), ELF-EMF (E), or a combined Noise and ELF-EMF group (NE).
  • Occupational noise and ELF-EMF exposures were measured according to ISO 9612 and IEEE Std C95.3.1, respectively.
  • Venous blood samples were collected and plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were analyzed using validated biochemical assays.

Findings

  • The NE group showed the highest MDA levels, indicating elevated lipid peroxidation compared with controls (p < 0.001).
  • GSH concentrations were lower in NE relative to controls (p < 0.001).
  • SOD activity was significantly reduced in both the N and NE groups versus controls (p < 0.005).
  • TAC was lowest in the NE group, with a significant decrease compared to both the control and noise-only groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

  • This study provides evidence that concurrent exposure to occupational noise and ELF-EMF is linked to increased oxidative stress biomarkers in power plant workers.
  • There is a demonstrated connection between ELF-EMF exposure and oxidative stress, reinforcing concerns about potential health risks.
  • Further research is needed to clarify health risks and guide evidence-based occupational safety measures.

Summary:

  • This study investigated oxidative stress biomarkers in power plant workers exposed to occupational noise, ELF-EMF, and their combination.
  • Concurrent exposure to noise and ELF-EMF was linked to a significant increase in malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation.
  • Other oxidative stress markers showed less consistent changes across exposure groups.
  • Findings highlight the need for more research into the health impacts of combined occupational exposures.

ELF-EMF power plant occupational exposure oxidative stress noise biomarkers health risk
← Back to Stats