The perception of health risks related to new technologies is widespread. This phenomenon is called “modern health concerns.” It includes concerns related to electromagnetic fields, atmospheric pollutants, diet, antibiotics, and climate change. These concerns are often cited in connection with the reporting of nonspecific symptoms.
In medically unexplained syndromes, such as chemical sensitivity, noise intolerance, and sick building syndrome, patients also complain of nonspecific symptoms that they attribute to an environmental agent, in the absence of an underlying condition that could explain them. These environmentally related syndromes, called idiopathic environmental intolerances, are varied. The acronym SAEF (Symptoms Associated with Environmental Factors) aims to bring them together under a single term.
Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) is a syndrome for which no identified underlying medical condition explains the associated symptoms. It is classified among idiopathic environmental intolerances (IEI) by the World Health Organization. In France, according to a 2018 opinion from the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses), IEI-CEM are defined based on three criteria:
– Perceiving various symptoms (fatigue, headaches, concentration difficulties, skin and digestive problems, etc.); – The absence of clinically identified disorders that could explain them; – Their attribution to electromagnetic fields such as antennas, Wi-Fi, high-voltage power lines, mobile phones, and computer screens by the individuals affected.
It is difficult to assess the prevalence of electromagnetic hypersensitivity. According to recent international prevalence studies, around 5% of the population declares themselves as electromagnetically sensitive, which amounts to more than 3 million people in France. Some variability in these estimates may be due to the lack of objective criteria.
The presence of anthropogenic electromagnetic fields in society often leads these individuals to adapt their lifestyle. The adaptation strategies commonly involve avoiding exposure by taking various protective measures. While some people report improvements in their quality of life, others experience social exclusion, work incapacity, and financial difficulties, often exacerbated by a lack of understanding from family and colleagues regarding the precautions they take.
The scientific literature also confirms that individuals with electromagnetic hypersensitivity tend to feel inferior to others and uncomfortable in social relationships. They may have difficulty maintaining self-esteem, a distorted self-image, and increased vulnerability. They are also more prone to anxiety or depressive disorders, although it is not certain whether these are a cause or a consequence of electromagnetic hypersensitivity.
Context: The article discusses the prevalence, symptoms, and implications of electromagnetic hypersensitivity as an environmentally related health concern.
Fact Check: The article accurately reflects the current scientific understanding of electromagnetic hypersensitivity.
