Occupational Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields: The Case for Caution

A review is presented of epidemiological studies on the possible relationship between occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and the risk of cancer. A number of reports in the published literature have indicated, among workers in electrical occupations, an elevated risk of cancer, especially leukemias, nervous system tumors, and breast cancer. Although many of these results cannot be regarded as conclusive because of a lack of adequate exposure assessment and other factors, they cannot be dismissed as possible evidence of a link between exposure to EMFs and cancer risk in electrical workers. A review of the literature on biological effects of EMFs is also presented, with a particular focus on the possible role of endocrine alterations induced by EMF exposure in predisposing workers to an elevated risk for several types of cancer.