Biophysical estimation of the environmental importance of electromagnetic fields

The rapid development of science and technology exposes living organisms to a wide range of electromagnetic fields. Some life-style and occupational conditions are associated with a level of electromagnetic fields higher than average. A series of epidemiological studies has raised concern about possible cancer risk of electromagnetic fields generated by power lines and electrical appliances. In contrast, hundreds of thousands of patients world-wide have been cured by use of electromagnetic fields. Biological effects of low-level electromagnetic radiation have become the focus of a number of studies. However, there are not enough basic scientific data related to mechanisms of action of electromagnetic fields. This paper proposes a biophysical approach to the estimation of the environmental importance of electromagnetic fields. The methods of collecting data, dosimetry, possible mechanisms of action and open problems are discussed in this review.