Most of us are used to the conveniences of modern life. But few of us are aware of the possible health risks presented by the gadgets that make our world work.
It turns out that our cellphones, microwaves, Wi-Fi routers, computers, and other appliances send out a stream of invisible energy waves that some experts are concerned about. Should we be concerned?
Since the beginning of the universe, the sun has sent out waves that create electric and magnetic fields (EMFs), or radiation. At the same time the sun sends out EMFs, we can see its energy radiating out. This is visible light.
At the turn of the 20th century, electric power lines and indoor lighting spread across the world. Scientists realized that the power lines supplying all that energy to the world’s population were sending off EMFs, just like the sun does naturally.
Over the years, scientists also learned that many appliances that use electricity also create EMFs like power lines do. X-rays, and some medical imaging procedures like MRIs, were also found to make EMFs.
According to the World Bank, 87 percent of the world’s population has access to electricity and uses electrical appliances today. That’s a lot of electricity and EMFs created around the world. Even with all those waves, scientists generally don’t think EMFs are a health concern.
But while most don’t believe EMFs are dangerous, there are still some scientists who question exposure. Many say there hasn’t been enough research into understanding whether EMFs are safe. Let’s take a closer look.