Anxiety disorder in exposed employment to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) in steel industry

Document Type : Original Research

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Abstract

AIMS. Electromagnetic field is a consequence of electrical ion movement in a conductor material. It is known that ultra-violet & infra-red waves have side effect on human. Extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) has considered more by scientists and researchers these days. This research has intended to concentrate on anxiety disorder and headache in steel industry employees. METHODS. This research is a cross-sectional study. 103 people who work in energy department, energy transfer line & electric furnace units have selected as target group. 106 people who work in refinery part, hot & cold rolling press were selected as control group. People came to examination unit between 10 to 12 am and after a physical and psychological examination a questionnaire about psychological complaints & disorders filled by researcher. RESULTS. Target (7%) and control (11%) groups have not shown a significant difference in behavioral disorder amount (p> 0.05) but they have shown a significant difference in anxiety disorder (p < 0.02) and headache occurrence (p < 0.001). Headaches which needed medical cares have just seen in target group (4 cases) CONCLUSION. Anxiety and central nervous system problems such as headache are symptoms that were seen more in people who are exposed to high power magnetic fields for long time as comparison with a normal society. Employees who are exposed with high intensity ELF-EMF (more than 1.0 mili Tesla) are at more risk.  

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Journal of Military Medicine
Volume 10, Issue 4 - Serial Number 34
January and February 2009
Pages 299-302

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