Abstract
BackgroundEvidence for a possible causal relationship between exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by high voltage transmission (HVT) lines and neurobehavioral dysfunction in children is insufficient. The present study aims to investigate the association between EMF exposure from HVT lines and neurobehavioral function in children.MethodsTwo primary schools were chosen based on monitoring data of ambient electromagnetic radiation. A cross-sectional study with 437 children (9 to 13 years old) was conducted. Exposure to EMF from HVT lines was monitored at each school. Information was collected on possible confounders and relevant exposure predictors using standardized questionnaires. Neurobehavioral function in children was evaluated using established computerized neurobehavioral tests. Data was analyzed using multivariable regression models adjusted for relevant confounders.ResultsAfter controlling for potential confounding factors, multivariable regression revealed that children attending a school near 500 kV HVT lines had poorer performance on the computerized neurobehavioral tests for Visual Retention and Pursuit Aiming compared to children attending a school that was not in close proximity to HVT lines.ConclusionsThe results suggest long-term low-level exposure to EMF from HVT lines might have a negative impact on neurobehavioral function in children. However, because of differences in results only for two of four tests achieved statistical significance and potential limitations, more studies are needed to explore the effects of exposure to extremely low frequency EMF on neurobehavioral function and development in children.
Highlights
Whenever electricity is generated, transmitted or consumed, electromagnetic fields (EMF) are created
The abundant use of high voltage transmission (HVT) lines has resulted in much concern being raised about the impact of EMF exposure from HVT lines on human health, especially in children [1]
Studies investigating potential causal associations between exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) and adverse health outcomes have mostly focused on childhood cancers [5,6,7] or nervous system diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [8,9,10,11], brain tumors [12,13] and Alzheimer’s disease [14], from occupational exposure
Summary
Whenever electricity is generated, transmitted or consumed, electromagnetic fields (EMF) are created. Studies investigating potential causal associations between exposure to ELF-EMF and adverse health outcomes have mostly focused on childhood cancers [5,6,7] or nervous system diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [8,9,10,11], brain tumors [12,13] and Alzheimer’s disease [14], from occupational exposure. Studies exploring the relationship between exposure to power EMF from HVT lines and neurobehavioral function in children are insufficient. Studies in adults and animal models suggest that acute cognitive effects may occur from short-term exposure to intense EMF. Characterization of these effects is necessary for the development of exposure guidelines. Evidence for a possible causal relationship between exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by high voltage transmission (HVT) lines and neurobehavioral dysfunction in children is insufficient. The present study aims to investigate the association between EMF exposure from HVT lines and neurobehavioral function in children
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