[Effect of low-frequency electromagnetic fields on the individual functional systems of the body]

Abstract

This paper is a review of recent publications about the effects of low frequency electromagnetic fields (EMF) (constant and pulsed) on the cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and blood systems of experimental animals and industrial workers exposed to them. It is reported that the regulatory systems (nervous and endocrine) are highly sensitive to EMF. It is obvious that investigations of hormone-receptor interactions can help better understand EMF effects on the endocrine system and the body as a whole. Published data about EMF effects on the cardiovascular system and blood are often contradictory, probably, because of different estimates of allowable limits recognized in various countries. It is hypothesized that circulatory changes are largely dependent on the central regulatory structures, particularly hypothalamus. White blood responses to the exposure, being most significant among hematological reactions, are also induced, to a certain extent, by regulatory mechanisms. The EMF effects may depend on the initial state and individual properties of the biological organism. It is postulated that the EMF effects on regulatory mechanisms may be related to primary disorders in cellular and mitochondrial membranes.