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Data from eleven previous studies of the effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on human health were examined by meta analysis. The studies selected all measured or estimated residential powerline exposure to 50 to 60 hertz (Hz) EMFs focusing on resultant human cancers. The four different categories of methodologies used to measure EMF exposure were wiring configuration codes, distance to power distribution equipment, spot measures of magnetic field strength, and calculated indices using distance to power distribution equipment and historic load data. For overall cancer risks, statistically significant increased risk was seen for exposure classification based on wire codes. For leukemia, the odds ratios based on distance measures and calculated indices increased to statistical significance, with the odds ratio for wire codes also increased and still significant. When risk estimates were pooled for childhood leukemia, wire codes, distance measures, and calculated indices increased further in strength. The authors conclude that only spot measures of magnetic field strength were not associated with increases in cancers and that the greatest effect of possible EMF carcinogenicity is on childhood leukemia.
Risk Analysis, 15(2):281-287, 1995. (24 references)
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