Study type: Epidemiological study (observational study)

Prevalence of self-reported hypersensitivity to electric or magnetic fields in a population-based questionnaire survey epidem.

Published in: Scand J Work Environ Health 2002; 28 (1): 33-41

Aim of study (acc. to author)

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Sweden to estimate the prevalence of self-reported hypersensitivity to electric and magnetic fields. Furthermore, the association of such hypersensitivity with demographic characteristics, other complaints and types of self-reported hypersensitivity (including traditional allergies) should be investigated.

Endpoint/type of risk estimation

Type of risk estimation:

Exposure

Assessment

Population

Study size

Type Value
Total 15,000
Participants 10,670
Participation rate 73 %
Evaluable 10,605
Statistical analysis method:

Results (acc. to author)

Of all respondents, 1.5 % (167 persons) reported hypersensitivity to electric or magnetic fields. The prevalence was highest among women and in the 60- to 69-year age group. The hypersensitive group reported all symptoms, allergies, and other types of hypersensitivities included in the survey to a significantly greater extent than the rest of the respondents. No specific symptom profile was identified for the hypersensitive group compared to the rest of the respondents.
The authors conclude that there is widespread concern among the general population about risks to health posed by electric and magnetic fields.

Limitations (acc. to author)

The authors noted that the results should be interpreted with caution.

Study funded by

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