Occupational EMF exposure from radar at X and Ku frequency band and plasma catecholamine levels

Abstract

Workers in certain occupations such as the military may be exposed to technical radiofrequency radiation exposure above current limits, which may pose a health risk. The present investigation intended to find the effect of chronic electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure from radar on plasma catecholamines in the military workforce. In the study, 166 male personnel selected randomly were categorized into three groups: control (n = 68), exposure group-I (X-band, 8-12 GHz, n = 40), and exposure group-II (Ku-band, 12.5-18 GHz, n = 58). The three clusters were further divided into two groups according to their years of service (YOS) (up to 9 years and ≥10 years) to study the effect of years of radar exposure. Enzyme immunoassay was employed to assess catecholamine concentrations. EMF levels were recorded at different occupational distances from radar. Significant adrenaline diminution was registered in exposure group-II with no significant difference in exposure group-I when both groups were weighed against control. Nor-adrenaline and dopamine levels did not vary significantly in both exposure groups when compared to controls. Exposure in terms of YOS also did not yield any significant alteration in any of the catecholamines and in any of the exposure groups when compared with their respective control groups. The shift from baseline catecholamine values due to stress has immense significance for health and well-being. Their continual alteration may prove harmful in due course. Suitable follow-up studies are needed to further strengthen these preliminary observations and for now, exposures should be limited as much as possible with essential safeguards.

Exposure Assessment to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields in Occupational Military Scenarios: A Review

“…The frequency of the radar systems ranges from 1 GHz to 300 GHz [ 7 , 41 , 42 ] and this variability of the frequencies depends on the application (i.e., control radars, weather radar, etc.). Indeed, the radar spectrum can be divided into 11 parts, where each part identifies a band: L-, S-, C-, X-, Ku-, K-, Ka-, V-, W-band [ 13 ].…”

Occupational exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields

“…Symbols in grey represent data published before 2012 and symbols in black data published in or after 2012. Literature references used: 27,53,57,69,71,76,80,[93][94][95][96][97][98][99][100][101][102][103][104][105]…”

Occupational Exposures and Environmental Health Hazards of Military Personnel

“…Two studies found that increased melanoma risk was also branch-dependent, with the highest rates among the United States Air Force. Several reviewed studies implicated increased sun exposure during military service and lack of sufficient sun protection as the causes of higher rates of skin cancer among US military and veteran populations as compared with non-military population in the United States [ 111 ] ( Table 10 ).…”

“…Indeed, after an initial period characterized by high stress levels and consequent enhanced production of adrenaline, biological systems tried to find a new homeostasis with reduced adrenaline levels to restore normal functioning. Regarding group I, the authors explained that radar frequency band and years of exposure were not sufficient to induce a stress response [ 111 ]. Sobiech et al evaluated electromagnetic fields-exposure of Polish military personnel by measuring 204 devices divided into four groups: airport radars and radio navigation system, aircraft and helicopters, surveillance and height finder radars, and communication devices.…”