Biological Effects of Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields

The healing effects of extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields have been reported extensively in medical and biomedical reports during the past decade. These effects are however, overshadowed by claims concerning adverse biological and environmental effects of ELF lectromagnetic fields of 50 and 60 Hz. Frequently, the studies on adverse effects of ELF electromagnetic fields are statistically biased due to inadequate control samples, insufficient data and badly designed experimental protocols. Nonetheless, the problem is considered severe enough that since the mid 1980's, scores of articles and reports have fueled the fire of "electrophobia" and support litigation filings against utility companies. This paper reviews the current debate surrounding the effects of electromagnetic fields, below 100 Hz. The Analysis focuses on the most current and statistically unbiased reports of biological hazards associated with high power, ELF electromagnetic fields. It outlines projects that are currently underway to identify and measure electromagnetic fields and discusses methods to counteract these effects. lastly, based on the in vivo and in vitro reports on magnetic field effects, acceptable ranges of magnetic fields are stressed and general guidelines are recommended for the future studies and implementation of high power transmission lines with minimal hazardous effects.