Electromagnetic Fields - WHO

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) encompass a broad spectrum of electromagnetic radiation frequencies and are among the most common and rapidly increasing environmental influences worldwide. EMFs range from static electric and magnetic fields through radiofrequency, infrared radiation, and up to X-rays. These fields are present naturally, as electromagnetic radiation has existed since the birth of the universe, with light being the most familiar example. Currently, all populations experience exposure to varying intensities of EMF, and this exposure is expected to grow as technology advances. Given growing public concern about the potential health effects of EMF exposure, the World Health Organization (WHO) established the International EMF Project in 1996. This initiative aims to evaluate scientific evidence related to health impacts of EMF within the frequency range of 0 to 300 GHz. The project serves multiple key objectives: providing coordinated international responses to health concerns, reviewing scientific literature to report on health effects, identifying knowledge gaps requiring further research, promoting focused research programs in collaboration with funding bodies, integrating research findings into WHO's Environmental Health Criteria monographs for formal health risk assessments, facilitating development of international standards for EMF exposure, and offering guidance on EMF management and protection to national authorities, institutions, the public, and workers. WHO also addresses public inquiries such as the nature of electromagnetic fields and health implications of emerging technologies like 5G mobile networks. Through its technical efforts, data resources, and policy support, WHO plays a crucial role in mitigating potential EMF health risks and informing global health governance regarding electromagnetic radiation exposure.