Abstract

Since the end of 1960, scientists have been concerned with the possible harmful effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields on mental health and on the risk of chronic diseases. Although these studies had many weaknesses, they gave rise to heated debates in the scientific world and the general population. This report summarizes the most recent research data on the relationship between the symptoms of depression and the presence of extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic fields. The author notes that difficulties in evaluating exposure, establishing precise symptoms and taking into account confounding factors renders epidemiological work in this field particularly complex. He points out that the majority of acceptable studies have not proven a cause and effect relationship between exposure to electromagnetic fields and health. He concludes that the present state of knowledge about biological mechanisms does not allow a link to be established between the appearance of the symptoms of depression and exposure to extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic fields.