Study Guide:
What is Electromagnetic Radiation?
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible lines of force that occur
whenever electricity is being conducted. These forces occur from both natural
sources such as the sun or atmospheric and solar disturbances, and from
man-made sources including electric lighting, microwaves, televisions, cell
phones and computers. Computer monitors generally emit an extremely low
frequency field, called ELF.
Health risks of
Electromagnetic Radiation using mobile phones and computers.
Computers and electronic devices such as mobile phones are an
integral part of our work and personal lives. As a result, we are exposed to
electromagnetic radiation emitted by these machines.
There are more than more than 2 billion cell phone users in
the world and this number is increasing rapidly worldwide. Due to the enormous
increase in the use of wireless mobile telephony, mobile phone radiation and
health concerns have been raised all across the globe. Mobile phones use
electromagnetic waves in the microwave range to transmit and receive signals. High level exposure to electromagnetic
radiation has the potential to do the following:
• Affect the growth of developing tissue
• Promote the growth of cancer cells
• Interfere with the cell processes and
functions
• Alter neurological functions
• Alter the production of neurohormones
• Affect the function of the pineal gland
and its hormone, melatonin
• Influence the dopamine, opiate, and pineal
systems, which in turn interact with the immune system
However, there is no scientific proof that these biological
effects will happen to people using a computer in everyday situations.
Computers are just one of the many sources of electromagnetic fields that we
are exposed every day. However, you should take steps to reduce your exposure
whenever possible.
In the past there were claims that exposure to Video Display
Terminals would cause miscarriage on the pregnant women. Now those claims have
been discredited as numerous studies have proved that Video Display Terminals
do not cause the miscarriage.