Outdoor characterization of radio frequency electromagnetic fields in a Spanish birth cohort

Outdoor characterization of radio frequency electromagnetic fields in a Spanish birth cohort

Calvente I, Fernández MF, Pérez-Lobato R, Dávila-Arias C, Ocón O, Ramos R, Ríos-Arrabal S, Villalba-Moreno J, Olea N, Núñez MI. Outdoor characterization of radio frequency electromagnetic fields in a Spanish birth cohort. Environ Res. 2015 Feb 20;138C:136-143. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.12.013. [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract

There is considerable public concern in many countries about the possible adverse effects of exposure to non-ionizing radiation electromagnetic fields, especially in vulnerable populations such as children. 

The aim of this study was to characterize environmental exposure profiles within the frequency range 100kHz-6GHz in the immediate surrounds of the dwellings of 123 families from the INMA-Granada birth cohort in Southern Spain, using spot measurements. 

The arithmetic mean root mean-square electric field (ERMS) and power density (SRMS) values were, respectively, 195.79mV/m (42.3% of data were above this mean) and 799.01µW/m2 (30% of values were above this mean); median values were 148.80mV/m and 285.94µW/m2, respectively. Exposure levels below the quantification limit were assigned a value of 0.01V/m. Incident field strength levels varied widely among different areas or towns/villages, demonstrating spatial variability in the distribution of exposure values related to the surface area population size and also among seasons. 

Although recorded values were well below International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection reference levels, there is a particular need to characterize incident field strength levels in vulnerable populations (e.g., children) because of their chronic and ever-increasing exposure. The effects of incident field strength have not been fully elucidated; however, it may be appropriate to apply the precautionary principle in order to reduce exposure in susceptible groups.

http://1.usa.gov/1FTNrwC

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Joel M. Moskowitz, Ph.D., Director
Center for Family and Community Health
School of Public Health
University of California, Berkeley

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