Epidemiological studies of exposures to electromagnetic fields: I. General health and birth outcome

The results of epidemiological studies of populations exposed to electromagnetic fields are summarised in respect of general health, cataracts, suicide, and birth outcome. It is concluded that the bulk of the evidence suggests that there are no effects at exposures below the limits advised by NRPB and INIRC. Some studies have indicated minor changes in components of the cerebrospinal fluid and in blood cell concentrations and function after exposures at or close to the advised limits. Although they appear to have no effect on health or performance, these need to be confirmed by further studies. For the average female user of visual display units there is no evidence of any influence on birth outcome.