Effects of Exposure to Microwaves: Problems and Perspectives

Abstract

During the last 25 years, there has been a remarkable development and increase in the number of processes and devices that utilize or emit microwaves. Such devices are used in all sectors of our society for military, industrial, telecommunications, and consumer applications. Although there is information on biologic effects and potential hazard to man from exposure to microwaves, considerable confusion and misinformation has permeated not only the public press but also some scientific and technical publications. The purpose of this review is to place the available information on biologic effects of microwaves in proper perspective and to suggest approaches to future studies.

Biological Effects and Health Implications of Radiofrequency Radiation

“…Early and sustained leukocytosis in animals exposed to thermogenic levels of microwaves may be related to stimulation of the hematopoietic system, leukocytic mobilization, or recirculation of se queste red cells. Eosinopenia and tran sie nt lymphocytopenia with rebound or overcompensation, when accompanied by neutrophilia, may be indicative of increased hypothalamic-hypophysical-adrenal function as a result of thermal stress (Michaelson, 1974) Alterations in one hematological parameter (RBCs) without concomitant changes in dependent variables (hemoglobin and RBC mass) are characteristic of several reports in the microwave literature. It emphasizes the need for rigidly applied appropriate multivariate statistical analyses of data before implying a biological effect based on invalid statistical tests.…”

“…Although some investigators and reviewers still question the interpretation of these so-called nonthermal effects (Michaelson, , 1974aMilroy and Michaelson, 1971;Sher et al, 1970), several support nonthermal interactions between tissues and electric and magnetic fields (Kholodov, 1966;Gordon, 1955;.…”

“…The strain plaeed upon the thermoregulatory system ultimately exhausts the heat loss eapabilities of the dog and death ensues due to hyperpyrexia unless the animal is removed from the field (Michaelson, 1974(Michaelson, , 1983.…”

Risiken Bei Hf-Strahlungen Von Telemetriesendern? Eine Kurzübersicht Über Die Wechselwirkungen Zwischen Elektromagnetischen Feldern Und Biologischen Systemen

“…Die Sicherheitsvorschriften der meisten östlichen Länder sind bedeutend strenger, z.B. UdSSR: 10 yW/cm 2 (Bei 6 hr/Tag Bestrahlung, f > 300 MHz [2]). …”

“…Sowjetische Arbeitsmediziner [11,2] berichten über Störungen im ZNS und im vegetativen Nervensystem. Die Symptome reichen von Kopfweh, Schwäche,MüdigkeitrUn-behagen,Benommenheit bis zu Gedächnisschwä-che und konnten im Westen bei zulässigen Leistungsdichten nicht beobachtet werden [2].…”