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Published on: August 19, 2020
Radiofrequency exposure in the Neonatal Medium Care Unit
I Calvente1, A Vázquez-Pérez2, M F Fernández3
1Unit Research Support of the San Cecilio University Hospital, Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada/University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Av. de la Investigación, 11, torre A, planta 11, 18016 Granada, Spain.
Radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) levels were measured in a neonatal unit. Higher RF-EMF exposure occurred near windows and incubators, especially at night, warranting cautious use of devices.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Neonatal Medium Care Units utilize various electronic devices, potentially emitting radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF).
- Limited data exists on RF-EMF exposure levels specifically within neonatal environments and incubators.
- Infants, particularly premature ones, are a vulnerable population with unknown sensitivities to EMF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) levels within a Neonatal Medium Care Unit.
- To analyze RF-EMF exposure specifically inside neonatal incubators.
- To assess potential variations in RF-EMF based on location and time of day.
Main Methods:
- Conducted spot and long-term measurements of RF-EMF using a dosimeter.
- Measured field strength in various locations, including near windows and incubators.
- Recorded measurements over a 17-hour period to capture diurnal variations.
Main Results:
- The mean spot measurement for RF-EMF was 1.51±0.48V/m.
- Long-term measurements inside incubators showed a mean field strength of 0.81 (±0.07)V/m, with a maximum of 1.58V/m.
- Higher RF-EMF levels were observed near the unit's window and incubators, and during nighttime compared to daytime.
Conclusions:
- RF-EMF levels in neonatal care units, particularly within incubators, necessitate consideration due to potential health implications.
- Characterizing RF-EMF exposure is crucial for further research into its effects on infant health.
- A prudent avoidance strategy for electronic devices is recommended for newborns due to their vulnerability and the unknown impact of EMF.
