Risk perception of Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields among INMA-Gipuzkoa birth cohort participants

Abstract

Introduction Despite evidence of health impact of environmental pollution on vulnerable population, there is limited knowledge of how the population perceives the risk. This study identifies risk perception in relation to radiofrequency (RF) reported by the participants of INMA-Gipuzkoa birth cohort and analyzes the association between perception, sociodemographic variables and radiofrequency (RF) exposure levels in their houses. Methods Data from 102 pregnant women recruited between 2006 and 2008 is analyzed. Women fulfilled a questionnaire regarding risk perception during pregnancy. They had to choose 5 environmental problems in their residence area among a list of 10 issues (air and water pollution, noise, proximity to mobile phone base stations and radio transmitters and to power lines, etc.). Information on sociodemographic variables (country of origin, age, study level, social class, and residence area) was also gathered. When children were 8 years old RF exposure levels were measured in their houses and mothers´ perception on exposure and health effects was collected (1-10 scale). Results During pregnancy 45 % of women included proximity to RF emission sources among 5 problems perceived as highest risk. No differences in risk perception were observed in relation to sociodemographic variables. During RF measuring campaign, 94.9 % of women showed medium-high perception in relation to RF exposure (> score 5) and 88.8 % considered that RF has a medium-high negative effect on health (> score 5). Measured average level was 0.17 V/m, far below European recommendation 1999/519/EC. Conclusions Perception of environmental risk is subjective and is not related to observed exposure levels. Better understanding of the determinants of risk perception by citizens is essential in order to give an answer to that preoccupation.