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Public Health Concerns - Saturday, February 22, 2003

Electricity supply systems generate electromagnetic fields (EMF's).  Many studies have been done on the public health impact of exposure to EMF's - with varying conclusions.  Despite many completed studies the debate continues.  Many reports urge caution in the face of uncertainty, recommending prudent avoidance as the best option.  Yet, of eleven states in the southeastern U.S. only Georgia has NO regulations regarding the siting of electric transmission. 

Some report excerpts and statements from public health organizations:

In October 2002, the California Department of Health issued a report following a 7-year study.  It concluded that exposure to EMF's increases risks of miscarriage, leukemia, brain cancer and Lou Gehrig's Disease.  

The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in June 2001, categorized EMF's as "Group 2B", or "possible carcinogen".  The IARC noted that "most governments restrict human access to substances similarly classified."  Asbestos is also categorized as Group 2B.  The World Health Organization recommended in October 2001 that power line "siting decisions should also consider ways to reduce peoples' exposure…"

A Washington State Department of Health report in 2000 suggested that EMF exposure is a key cause of a four-fold increase in the incidence of childhood leukemia between 1920 and 1960.  Authors Milham and Ossiander note, "the most remarkable feature of childhood leukemia has been the development of a childhood peak of incidence at ages 2 through 4.  Worldwide, the emergence of this peak tracks electrification.  Even today, places without electrification do not show this peak".

In an article presented at the Conference of International Society for Environmental Epidemiology, it is stated "no known mechanism by which magnetic fields of the type generated by high voltage power lines can play a role in cancer development.  Nevertheless, epidemiologic research has consistently found associations between residential magnetic field exposure and cancer.  This is most evident for leukemia in children."

Some websites for more information:

www.niehs.nih.gov/emfrapid
www.powerlinefacts.com
www.strayvoltage.com
www.emfguru.com
www.toxicelectricity.com
www.mcw.edu/gcrc/cop/powerlines-cancer-FAO/toc.html
www.powerwatch.org
www.who.ch.emf
www.wave-guide.org
www.pal-uk.org (Parents Against Leukemia)
www.electric-fields.bris.ac.uk

Georgia organization promoting enhanced regulations/guidelines:

www.hopeofgeorgia.com

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