The human body uses electromagnetic impulses to generate brain waves and heartbeats. Common sense suggests that external fields can have potent physiologic effects.
A Massachusetts study published back in 1993 showed a significant association between proximity to power lines and depressive symptoms; that is, people who were able to see the towers from their house or yard were nearly 3 times more likely than those living farther away to experience depression. A Finnish study done a few years later confirmed a much higher risk of severe depression among those living within 100 yards of a power line.
In recent years, concern has increased about exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic radiation emitted from mobile telephones and phone station antennae. An Egyptian study confirmed concerns that living nearby mobile phone base stations increased the risk for developing headaches, memory problems, dizziness, depression, and sleep problems. Short-term exposure to these fields in experimental studies have not always shown negative effects, but this does not rule out cumulative damage from these fields, so larger studies over longer periods are needed to help understand who is at risk. In large studies, an association has been observed between symptoms and exposure to these fields in the everyday environment. While studies are ongoing, it makes sense to limit exposure by not sleeping under electric blankets, and using a headphone or speakers to separate the user’s head from mobile phones (hands-free operation).
