Study of self-reported hypersensitivity to electromagnetic fields in California
Authors not listed · 2002
A telephone survey of 2,072 Californians found an adjusted prevalence of 3.2% for self-reported hypersensitivity to electromagnetic fields, and the strongest predictor was a doctor-diagnosed environmental illness or multiple chemical sensitivity.
Plain English Summary
Researchers reported the results of a telephone survey among a sample of 2,072 Californians. Being allergic or very sensitive to electrical devices was reported by 68 subjects, giving an adjusted prevalence of 3.2%. The strongest predictor of reporting hypersensitivity was a doctor-diagnosed environmental illness or multiple chemical sensitivity. Risk perception from hair dryers was most associated with self-reporting, but risk perception alone did not explain the characteristics.
Why This Matters
Cases of alleged hypersensitivity to EMFs have been reported for more than 20 years, with some authors suggesting a connection to multiple chemical sensitivity. Characteristics of people reporting hypersensitivity to EMFs were generally different from those reporting allergy to everyday chemicals. Twenty-seven subjects reported sensitivity to electrical devices but no sensitivity to chemicals. Other predictive factors apart from self-reporting chemical sensitivity were race/ethnicity other than White, Black, or Hispanic; having low income; and being unable to work.
Show BibTeX
@article{study_of_self_reported_hypersensitivity_to_electromagnetic_fields_in_california_ce1702,
author = {Unknown},
title = {Study of self-reported hypersensitivity to electromagnetic fields in California},
year = {2002},
doi = {10.1289/EHP.02110S4619},
}