3. Do electromagnetic fields have health effects?

In the low-frequency range, magnetic fields are most significant to health. Strong low-frequency magnetic fields can stimulate optic nerves, and very strong fields can excite muscle nerves (leading to muscle cramps). In everyday life nobody is exposed to magnetic fields of such magnitude, not even approximately. With regard to the health significance of long-term exposure to very weak magnetic fields, e.g., when living near a high-voltage power transmission line, scientific findings are controversial. There is evidence that the (very low) risk for leukaemia could increase for residents near power lines.

When high-frequency electromagnetic fields penetrate into the body, part of their energy is absorbed and converted into heat. Health implications occur due to excessive heating. However, this would require field strengths that are magnitudes above the exposure limits. Little is known about possible health impacts of non-thermal effects. Negative implications could not yet be proven clearly. Evidence for increased cancer risks due to the use of mobile phones are very controversial. Long-term studies on humans are still missing.

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