IEE reaffirms low risk from low-level EMFs

The IEE has published its 2004 position statement on possible harmful biological effects of low-level electromagnetic fields of frequencies such as mobile communication systems and power cables.

The IEE has published its 2004 position statement on possible harmful biological effects of low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs) of frequencies such as mobile communication systems and power cables.

The balance of scientific evidence over the past two years does not indicate harmful effects occur in humans due to low-level EMFs up to 300GHz, according to the IEE Policy Advisory Group on Biological Effects.

"After analysing the past two years of peer-reviewed literature on the topic, the group's conclusion is the same as that reached in its last statement in 2002", said the Chair, Prof Anthony Barker from the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield.

"The absence of any new and robust evidence of harmful effects is reassuring.

The cumulative evidence from a large body of research compiled in the past 20 years suggests, in general, that the existence of harmful health effects is unlikely", he said.

However, pooled analysis of epidemiological studies has suggested an association between higher magnetic fields levels at power frequencies and childhood leukaemia.

Although the raised risk was relatively low, the group supports further epidemiological and laboratory-based research to investigate its relevance to human health.

A causal link between leukaemia and EMFs has not yet been shown said Prof Barker.

Ongoing studies of mobile phone effects will help answer some outstanding questions, but the literature to date does not show cause for public concern.

Prof Barker said the IEE view was consistent with other major reviews of the issue.

He stressed that the group recommends that isolated reports of biological effects or epidemiological findings be treated with caution until confirmed by an independent group.

The group recommends adhering to the Guidelines on Science and Health Communication found at www.sirc.org/publik/revised_guidelines.shtml, produced by the Social Issues Research Centre in partnership with the Royal Society and the Royal Institution.

The guidelines recommend that articles publicising research findings should state if the work has not been peer-reviewed, and if so, the study methodology should be checked and advice sought from an independent expert prior to publication.

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