Exposure to electromagnetic fields and users' health

Abstract

Aims: This study has examined exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and its effect on the general health of computer users. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed by participating 73 employees. A calibrated galactooligosaccharide meter model HI-3603 was used to measure EMF and a general health questionnaire examined their health status. Statistical Analysis Used: For analyzing data, the t-test and Chi-square test were applied. Results: The electric field intensities in desktop monitors and laptops were 0.26–1.2 and 0.28–0.87 volts/m, respectively, which is higher than the standard levels. The results from the public health questionnaire revealed that 39% of computer users had some problems in general health status. A significant difference was observed between the general health of the two groups (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The role of using electronic equipment for communication and daily activities became more prominent. Therefore, it is clear that with the widespread use of this equipment, all members of society will be exposed to some kind of EMF. Therefore, people who work with computers due to their job will use this equipment to do things during other nonworking hours. As a result of this increase in the time of using electronic equipment, their health will be at risk.

Keywords

• electromagnetic
• field
• health
• user-computer