Electromagnetic waves are omnipresent in our daily lives: mobile phones, base stations, Wi-Fi, electrical appliances, microwaves and many more. With the increase in their use, many questions are being asked about the effects of these waves on our health, particularly in children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to the cumulative effects on the body. So are electromagnetic waves really dangerous? Here's an in-depth look at this complex subject.
What are electromagnetic waves?
Electromagnetic waves are oscillations of electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space. They come in a vast range of frequencies, forming the electromagnetic spectrum. This spectrum includes :
- 1. Radio waves (used for radio, television and telephones).
- 2. Microwaves (used in particular for microwave ovens and certain wireless communications).
- 3. Infrared waves (emitted by heat).
- 4. Visible light (the only part perceptible to the human eye).
- 5. Ultraviolet rays (UV).
- 6. X-rays and gamma rays (used in medical imaging).
All these electromagnetic waves do not have the same energy and do not interact in the same way with the human body. Their potential danger to health depends in particular on their frequency and intensity.
Ionising and non-ionising waves: what are the differences?
To assess the danger of electromagnetic waves, it is essential to distinguish between ionising and non-ionising waves.
- Ionising waves, such as X-rays and gamma rays, have sufficient energy to damage the DNA of cells, increasing the risk of mutations and hence cancer. These waves are strictly regulated and limited in medical environments.
- Non-ionising waves, which include radio waves, Wi-Fi and microwaves, are less energetic and do not normally cause direct damage to DNA. These are the waves most commonly found in our everyday environment.
What are the potential health effects of electromagnetic waves?
Research into the effects of electromagnetic waves has been ongoing for several decades. Here are the main concerns raised by scientists and health authorities:
1. Thermal effects
Microwaves, for example, generate heat by acting on water molecules. This is harmless at low power levels, as is the case with Wi-Fi, but prolonged and intense exposure can lead to overheating of tissues, as is the case with high-power microwaves (used in the kitchen) or certain industrial appliances.
2. Possible effects on the brain and nervous system
The intensive use of mobile phones, particularly close to the head, has raised concerns about the risk of brain tumours. Although most studies to date have not established a direct link, in 2011 the World Health Organisation (WHO) classified electromagnetic fields from phones as ‘possibly carcinogenic’, urging caution.
3. Disruption to sleep and biological functions
Some people report sleep disturbances, headaches, tinnitus and fatigue that they attribute to electromagnetic waves, particularly Wi-Fi and base stations. Scientists recognise that waves can disrupt melatonin, the hormone essential for sleep, although these effects remain moderate and are often difficult to isolate.
4. Electrohypersensitivity (EHS)
Electrohypersensitivity is a condition in which people claim to be sensitive to electromagnetic fields and suffer from various symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, muscle pain and mood disorders. Although studies are still contradictory as to the biological reality of EHS, it is a real source of discomfort for many individuals. In France, some municipalities have taken steps to reduce sources of waves in public places in response to complaints from electrosensitive people.
Can the risks associated with electromagnetic waves be minimised?
Although there is limited evidence of any direct danger from electromagnetic waves, it is possible to reduce your exposure to take greater precautions. Here are a few tips on how to limit the waves in your environment:
1. Limit mobile phone use
Using headphones or speakerphone mode reduces exposure of the head to waves. Avoid keeping your mobile phone close to you, especially at night, and put it on aeroplane mode while you sleep.
2. Limit exposure to Wi-Fi
Switch off Wi-Fi when you're not using it, especially at night. Modern routers also allow you to adjust the signal strength, which can reduce exposure while maintaining a good connection.
3. Avoid unnecessary appliances
Induction hobs, microwaves and wireless devices emit electromagnetic waves. Avoid staying close to these devices when they are in operation, and opt for wired devices to limit emissions.
4. Create a space in your home free of waves
You can set aside a room free of wave-emitting devices to make it a rest area, promoting a healthy sleeping environment.
5. Use magnetotherapy to protect yourself from the effects of electromagnetic waves
Magnetic therapy, which uses gentle magnetic fields to promote energy balance with energy boxes, may help to counter some of the undesirable effects of electromagnetic waves. Although it cannot block the waves directly, it helps to reduce the stress and fatigue felt by some people, particularly those who consider themselves to be electro-hypersensitive.
What's more, the Actipol magnetic sleep set restores a stable, homogenous magnetic field to the surface of the bed, promoting an environment conducive to quality sleep.
Current scientific studies: should we be concerned about electromagnetic waves?
To date, the majority of public health studies have not concluded that there is a proven risk to health from low-intensity electromagnetic waves, such as those emitted by telephones and Wi-Fi. However, as a precautionary measure, researchers recommend moderate use of these devices. Agencies such as France's Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire (ANSES) are continuing to conduct research to better understand the long-term effects, particularly on children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to environmental impacts.
In conclusion: caution and moderation
Although electromagnetic waves are part of our daily lives, current evidence suggests that they present no major danger when used sensibly. However, for people who are sensitive or want to minimise their exposure, simple adjustments can be made to reduce the presence of waves in their immediate environment.