Ambulatory ECG monitoring in workers exposed to electromagnetic fields

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the function of the circulatory system in work occupationally exposed to medium Jiequency electromagnetic field. The subjects were 71 workers at four AM broadcast stations [O. 738-1-503 MHZ] aged 20–68 (mean 4 6.9 ± 13.1) years and 22 workers at radio link stations aged 23–67 (mean 4 8.2 ± 17.4) years. Workers at AM broadcast stations experienced 2–40 (mean 18.6 ± 12.1) years’ exposure to electromagnetic fields (average daily exposure dose about 115 vh m−1, maximum exposure levels during shift about 165 V m−1), workers at radio link stations had no history of regular exposure to electromagnetic field. In all the subjects a general medical examination, resting ECG and 24 h Holter monitoring were perfomed. The work organization, work period structure, age, lifestyle, nutritional habits and health status in both groups remained fair4 similur. The electrocardiographic abnmmalities detected in the resting and/ or 24 h ECG were signajkantly more fiequent (p = O. 006) in workers exposed to electromagnetic fieus than in non-exposed subjects (75% versus 25%). A clear tendency for a higher number of rhythm disturbances (mostly ExV) was observed in AM broadcast station workas.