Global Researchers Sound the Alarm on Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity
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“Electromagnetic hypersensitivity is the tip of the iceberg, whereas sickness and disease is the entire iceberg.”
- Steven Magee, author of Toxic Electricity
Our exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) is increasing at an exponential rate. Between smartphones and Wi-Fi and 5G technology, connecting globally is more efficient than ever. While we can’t deny the convenience of this rapidly evolving technology, it brings about significant concerns regarding the impact on human health and our environment.
In response to these growing concerns, the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF) was established to research the biological effects of EMFs. According to their website, “ICBE-EMF is dedicated to the protection of humans and other species from the harmful effects of non-ionizing radiation.” This independent commission is at the forefront of efforts to understand the risks associated with EMF exposure, particularly in light of the increasing number of people who report suffering from a condition known as electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS).
Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity: A Growing Public Health Concern
One of the most pressing issues addressed by the ICBE-EMF is electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), a condition where individuals experience a range of symptoms triggered by exposure to EMFs:
Headaches
Fatigue
Cognitive difficulties
Sleep disturbances
Skin reactions
Heart palpitations
Although EHS is not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis by many health authorities, the number of people reporting these symptoms is growing. According to recent estimates, between 3% and 5% of the population may be electro-sensitive, which translates to millions of people worldwide. This growing prevalence has led to increasing calls for more research into EHS and for public health measures to protect those who suffer from this condition.
Europeans for Safe Connections, an alliance of European organizations aiming to reduce the impact of technology on health and the environment, organized an event to share information on the harm of wireless technology. Members of the electro-hypersensitive community spoke out about their somber situations dealing with the effects of 5G technology, stating their fears that the proposed future 6G will be unbearable. Rob van der Boom of the Netherlands stated, “We have unacceptable side effects of radiofrequencies on the health of people and on nature as well. The current rules of the EU do not take these into consideration.”
The Challenges of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity
For those with EHS, daily life can be a continuous struggle. Exposure to EMFs from common sources such as cell phones and Wi-Fi routers can trigger debilitating symptoms, forcing some to take drastic measures to avoid EMF exposure. Some EHS sufferers relocate to areas with minimal EMF exposure to find relief from their symptoms, but that’s simply not an option for every person dealing with this level of sensitivity. Thankfully, there are small, manageable steps anyone can take to reduce their level of EMF exposure:
Distance: Move farther away from a source. Exposure to EMFs rapidly decreases with distance from the source. Use speakerphone when talking on the cell phone, and keep devices away from you when sleeping.
Unplug: When not using a device, turn it off. Devices that rely on Wi-Fi are emitting EMFs even when not in use. Turn the Wi-Fi router itself off at night or when not in use.
Limit Use: Reduce the amount of non-essential time spent on devices
Utilize EMF Protection : Invest in proven, researched EMF protection technology like the Aires Tech Lifetune devices to add a layer of protection wherever you go.
Misunderstanding Surrounding Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity
A major challenge for individuals with EHS is the lack of recognition and understanding from the medical community. Because EHS is not widely acknowledged as a legitimate medical condition, many sufferers encounter skepticism from healthcare professionals. Not only is this discouraging, but it can lead to a lack of proper diagnosis and treatment. EHS sufferers report feeling isolated and unsupported through their journey to understanding this condition.
The ICBE-EMF recognizes the importance of addressing the needs of those with EHS. The commission advocates for more research into the condition to better understand its causes and to develop effective treatments. Additionally, the ICBE-EMF supports the recognition of EHS as a functional impairment, which would allow for accommodations such as low-EMF zones in public spaces and appropriate healthcare for those affected.
The Mission of the ICBE-EMF
The International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields was formed to address the evidence suggesting that EMF exposure could have biological effects beyond the thermal impacts that were the initial concern. These effects, which do not cause a noticeable rise in temperature, are increasingly being linked to health issues. Given the widespread rollout of new technologies such as 5G and the anticipated arrival of 6G in the future, there is a valid concern that regulations are not keeping up with the rate of technological advancements.
The ICBE-EMF aims to get regulations caught up with our rapidly advancing technology. Their mission involves:
Advancing Scientific Research : The ICBE-EMF prioritizes scientific research into the biological effects of EMFs. Instead of only looking at the thermal effects, they are focusing on non-thermal effects that are often overlooked in current safety standards.
Raising Awareness : The commission works to educate the public about the potential risks associated with EMF exposure and provides practical advice on how to reduce EMF exposure.
Advocating for Policy Change : The ICBE-EMF seeks to influence public policy by presenting scientific evidence to governments. The commission calls for stricter exposure limits and emphasizes the need for comprehensive health and environmental assessments before new wireless technologies are deployed.
The Need for Stricter EMF Regulations
According to research and testimonies presented by various groups, including Europeans for Safe Connections, the current regulations fail to account for the non-thermal effects of EMF exposure. Similarly, in the United States, the Federal Communications Commission was under scrutiny for their current guidelines on EMF safety levels which have not been updated since 1996, long before widespread wireless technology emerged.
The ICBE-EMF is actively pushing for more stringent regulations. The commission advocates for the application of the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, which calls for minimizing exposure to EMFs as much as possible. This approach would involve setting lower exposure limits, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Shaping Future Protective Measures
As our world becomes increasingly reliant on wireless technologies, the role of the ICBE-EMF in safeguarding public health is more critical than ever. The commission’s work is not just about understanding the potential risks of EMF exposure. It’s about taking steps to mitigate those risks.
For anyone suffering from electromagnetic hypersensitivity, the ICBE-EMF offers hope. By bringing attention to this often-overlooked condition, the commission is helping to drive the research and policy changes needed to better support those living with EHS.