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Cancer and Electro Magnetic Fields Linked by Study

July 6, 2015 by Grassroots Leave a Comment

Is there a link between cancer and magnetic fields? A five year study by Canadian researchers at the University of Toronto, in conjunction with the Hospital for Sick Children, have found “an association” between childhood leukemia and high magnetic field levels from sources such as power lines. Funding for the research came from Ontario Hydro Services Co. (formerly part of Ontario Hydro) and the Canadian Electric Association.

Children, some outfitted with personal monitors, who were exposed to magnetic fields in residences, both indoors and out, were found to be 2 to 4 times more likely to have leukemia. Children under age 6 were especially at risk. The findings were released in the June 1999 International Journal of Cancer and Cancer Causes & Control. In 1992, the Karolinska Institute in Sweden released a study showing a connection between proximity to power lines and various cancers, most notably childhood leukemia.

Electricity is taken for granted most of the time but it may be harming us. If currents leaving and entering a home not equal, an “inequity” can create a magnetic field along the service drop — where the electricity is fed into the house. These unseen electromagnetic fields (EMF) are lines of force that surround house wiring, power lines in the street and high-voltage lines. Some household items that can produce EMF include knob & tube wiring, electric appliances, microwave oven, electric range, heated aquariums, plug-in analog clocks, blow dryer, heated waterbed, electric blanket, electric baseboard heat, table fan, fluorescent light, cellular phone, electric space heater, and, computer monitors.

EMF are stronger relative to the strength of current, and its intensity falls off quickly with distance from the source. Currently there have been no acceptable levels of EMF emissions set down by any governing bodies in North America, however in Sweden a reading of 2 milliGauss (mG) is thought to be acceptable. A number of epidemiological studies in the area of childhood brain cancer and leukemia linked with EMF are at magnetic field levels above 2-3 mG. This suggests that EMF levels below this are safer. Some have suggested guideline levels of 1 mG or even 0.65 mG.

When buying a home practice prudent avoidance — include a satisfactory EMF inspection requirement in the offer to purchase, and avoid homes with levels above the 2 mG. Although it is not necessarily a safe level it may be a level of acceptable risk relative to higher levels, given what we know at this time.

When inspecting buildings we are often asked questions concerning various topics. Some of these queries can relate to issues not within the scope of a typical inspection. That’s not to say that information about these topics would not be useful however. For that reason, we wanted to include information on some of these topics your further review.

NOTICE: The information contained on the grassroots.ca website is not intended to be exhaustive nor does it necessarily apply to all buildings, systems, components and the likes. While some information may be able to be “transferred” to a building you’re interested in, it should not automatically be applied to it necessarily. It may however simply act as a prompter for areas you may wish to explore further. As such, the information herein is for information purposes only. It’s not intended to be an exhaustive listing of any / all related issues. Always consult a professional before purchasing, leasing or selling a building, or if proceeding with or considering any work to a building. Seek further professional advice, and, analysis including at least three (3) quotations from various professional reputable & qualified contractors before proceeding with any contemplated work, repairs, improvements, and / or, modifications to a building, to better establish the scope of any / all concerns.

Filed Under: All, Information Bulletins, Safety & Environmental Tagged With: cancer, electromagnetic radiation, EMF, leukemia, magnetic fields

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