Possible health implications of subjective symptoms and electromagnetic fields A report prepared by a European group of experts for the European Commission, DG V
Bergqvist, U (Contributor), Vogel, E (Contributor), Aringer, L (Creator), Cunningham, J (Creator), Gobba, F (Creator), Leitgeb, N (Creator), Miro, L (Creator), Neubauer, G (Creator), Ruppe, I (Creator), Vecchia, P (Creator), Wadman, C (Creator)
Summary, conclusions and recommendations The aim of the project was to investigate the occurrence of "electromagnetic hypersensitivity" across Europe. The relevant scientific literature was to be reviewed and the publications and case reports concerning symptoms or adverse health effects were to be analysed in view of a better health protection and prevention. Data on risk perception and communication as well as available public information in connection with this phenomenon and electromagnetic fields were to be evaluated, and specific advice on handling and further recommendations were to be deduced. The term "electromagnetic hypersensitivity" is used here to designate a phenomenon where individuals experience adverse health effects while using or being in the vicinity of electric, magnetic or electromagnetic field sources and devices (EMF devices). The use of the term "electromagnetic hypersensitivity" does not : by itself : presuppose or indicate any causes of these adverse reactions. The project was made possible by a grant from DG V of the European Commission. Description Certain individuals experience adverse health reactions while using or being in the vicinity of EMF devices. Symptoms vary substantially among different individuals, but in the majority of cases they present mild non-specific symptoms, with objective signs normally absent : unless another disease is present. There are, however, some cases experiencing severe problems with major consequences for work and everyday life. There are no known long-term diseases related to this phenomenon. In the absence of diagnostic criteria, the observed symptoms are attributed to "electromagnetic hypersensitivity". Both symptoms and attributions do vary substantially between different afflicted individuals. The occurrence and appearance of this phenomenon also vary considerably throughout Europe. It is possible that the varying use of a term like "electromagnetic hypersensitivity" for many different types of clai
Downloadable Archival Material, English, 2007-05-09T09:40:44Z
Arbetslivsinstitutet, 2007-05-09T09:40:44Z