Genotoxic and carcinogenic effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields
Introduction
With the impact of the globalization, the world has entered a time of change and development. This is leading to rapid population growth and energy consumption (Asumadu-Sarkodie and Owusu, 2016). Fast growing wireless broadband and communication technologies have become the main source of global pollution by creating threats to the environment and human life, while at the same time providing concrete solutions to the emerging needs of globalization (Milner et al., 2012). Today, with the widespread use of electric devices, electromagnetic fields (EMF) have become a particularly important global phenomenon, and one that is creating concerns and worries among many people (Miclaus and Calota, 2010, Stather, 1997).
EMF consists of both electric and magnetic fields of force (Phillips, 2013). It was first discovered during the 19th century (Berkson, 2000), however, it has been present since life first emerged, due to its generation via natural phenomena (Sher, 1997). All living things are continuously exposed to EMF from natural sources at levels between 25 μT and 65 μT (Gould, 1984). In addition to natural sources of EMF, living organisms are also exposed to EMF generated by human-made sources, such as cell phones, cell phone base stations, radio stations, computer screens and many other electrical devices widely used in daily life (Berg, 1992).
The question of whether exposure to EMF is beneficial or hazardous is still the subject of much debate. This debate is encouraging research to determine whether or not it is safe to live with constant exposure to EMF (Kheifets and Ritz, 2006). Numerous studies have shown the impact of EMF on animals, tissues (Aydin and Akar, 2011, Sonmez et al., 2010), and the functional features of cells (Koch et al., 2003, Liburdy et al., 1993), but the findings are still considered preliminary. In contrast, many studies have reported therapeutic effects of EMF on various organs and body systems, including reversal of cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) (Arendash et al., 2010), stimulation of the repair mechanism in bone and cartilage (Bai et al., 2013, Haddad et al., 2007, Trock et al., 1994), wound healing, and nerve regeneration (Mohammadi and Mahmoodzadeh, 2015).
Some of the main features of EMF are its frequency and wavelength, both of which interact with living organisms in different ways (Grimes and Grimes, 2002, Panagopoulos et al., 2002). The biological effects of EMF depend on the frequency or wavelength. The purpose of this review is to summarize and analyze existing studies that describe the association between EMF and their carcinogenic and genotoxic effects on living organisms. A secondary aim is to contribute to the current debate on the possible impacts of EMF, and whether or not EMF exposure is dangerous to humans.
In the first section, EMF and its main ranges are explained. Frequencies and wavelengths are described and differences set out. Then, non-ionizing range is divided into subsections based on frequency. Within the subsections, existing experimental and epidemiological studies are reviewed in terms of genotoxic and carcinogenic effects.
Section snippets
Classification of EMFs
EMF is produced by electrically charged objects and may be defined as a combination of electric fields (EF) and magnetic fields (MF). Electromagnetic waves are carried by particles known as photons (quanta) (Feynman, 1974). EMF exhibits its characteristic features via the interrelated parameter of wavelength and frequency. Frequency is measured in terms of number of oscillations per second (hertz) and wavelength describes the distance between one wave and the next, measured in meters. As the
Extremely low frequency effects
Frequencies up to approximately 300 Hz (Hz) are known as extremely low frequency (ELF), and are part of the non-ionizing radiation range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The fields emitted by power lines, railways, and electrical devices at home and in the workplace are in the ELF range. The effects of both EF and MF on biological systems are highly controversial. Recent studies have focused on the illumination of their potential genotoxic, carcinogenic, and neurological effects. The effects of
Conclusion
The findings reported in the current study highlight the difficulty involved in evaluating the effects of EMF is very difficult. Each of the various study types, in vitro, in vivo, animal experimental, and epidemiological, has its own specific advantages and disadvantages regarding certain frequency ranges and their specific parameters (sample size, dosimetry, study design). International authorities (WHO, ICNIRP and IARC) and local institutions have also published differing and inconsistent
Acknowledgement
We would like to thanks to Dr. Devra Davis and Ms Sarina Scott for their excellent review and contribution to this mansucript.
Conflict of interest
Authors declare no conflict of interest.
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