Which Scientific Findings Support the WHO’s Decision to Categorize Magnetic Fields as Possibly Carcinogenic?
One form of magnetic field, called extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF), has been labelled “possibly carcinogenic to humans” by the World Health Organization (WHO).
This is to say, there’s some proof that exposure may make you more susceptible to cancer, but the science isn’t ripe yet. Should you be worried or not?
Let’s simplify it a bit, talk about why it’s important, and see how it works in cars and life.
Why Did WHO Define ELF-MF as “Possibly Carcinogenic”?
The WHO deemed it such on the basis of three sources of evidence: research on human health (epidemiology), data from experiments, and theories of how these disciplines might work on our bodies (mechanistic evidence).
1. Studies on Human Health
Researchers identified a potential association between long-term extremely low-frequency magnetic fields exposure and childhood leukemia, a blood cancer (source: National Library of Medicine).
For instance, an experiment was done to measure magnetic fields inside the homes of children. When fields were always greater than 0.4 microteslas (the unit of measurement for magnetic fields), children seemed more likely to develop leukemia.
Remember, these experiments are correlational, that is, the two conditions (stronger magnetic fields and leukemia) co-occur.
2. Experimental Data
In labs, researchers have examined the effects of these magnetic fields on processes involving cells. Some findings suggest:
- Variations in cell proliferation
- Damages to DNA
- Changes in gene activity
The rub, though, is that not every experiment produces the same result, which is why further studies are needed.
3. Theories on What It Could Do to Our Body
No one knows exactly how these types of magnetic fields could cause cancer. One hypothesis is that these fields would disrupt the body’s electrical processes.
Picture this: our nerves and muscles need tiny electrical impulses to function properly and ELF-MF could potentially perturb such mechanisms in tiny ways. It could also increase the production of molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage our DNA and potentially play a role in the development of cancer (source: National Library of Medicine).
Is There A Risk Of Magnetic Fields In Cars?
Because they have huge batteries and electric motors, electric and hybrid cars generate magnetic fields. These fields are strongest close to the floor of the car where the battery and motor are, and then they decline dramatically as you get further away.
What’s Next?
As a potential carcinogen, the IARC’s assessment of ELF-MF as possibly so is a product of limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and in experimental animals. Researchers continue to monitor extremely low-frequency magnetic fields in an attempt to clearly identify its potential health consequences.
But remember: research takes time, and the more we learn the more we’ll know about car and other magnetic fields and how dangerous or safe they are.
Meanwhile, it’s always better to be careful and keep your unnecessary exposure to a minimum as much as possible.
