Electric and magnetic fields: the perceived public risks

Abstract

The perception of possible hazards from power lines is somewhat a function of the perceiver. These perceptions by an electrical engineer are intended to aid others, especially physicians, see the difference between the widespread quackery and the best estimates of hazard from those appropriately educated. Terminology is rigorously introduced partially to debunk the use of the words "electromagnetic fields" and "radiation from power lines". The suspected "link" of power lines to childhood cancer is explained. The author's perception is that one cannot ignore the correlation of cancer with distance from power lines. The magnetic field explanation of this "link" is not viable. The future research needs to concentrate on electric fields and searching for confounders.