Dr Ian Litchfield is a Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Applied Health Sciences, University of Birmingham, with a background in occupational medicine and interests in health service delivery.
Since the introduction of radio broadcasting in the 1930s, the use of Radio Frequency( RF) radiation has proliferated to encompass a range of applications across a variety of sectors. Combined with the development of the“ wireless office” and the growth of mobile telecommunications, the number of persons exposed to RF radiation has rapidly increased, leading to continued concerns over potential health effects. Though no consistent adverse health outcomes are apparent, the ubiquity of RF exposure means an undetected effect may yet become a serious public health problem.
So far, few epidemiological cohort studies have investigated the effects of RF exposure in occupational settings and there remains a need for improved research into potential health effects of long-term exposure to RF in the working environment. In classifying RF as a category 2B“ possible carcinogen”, the International Agency for Research on Cancer( IARC) acknowledged that evidence from previous studies exploring the impact on health of occupational exposures was“ inadequate”, with methodological limitations and inconsistent results.
be established, and that cancer risks and mortality be examined to determine whether there are any harmful effects”. The rationale for focussing on occupationally exposed workers was that this group is exposed to the highest levels of RF, so any adverse health effects would be visible in this cohort in advance of the general public.
In response, the Health and Safety Executive established the National Register of RF Workers, a resource for independent researchers to investigate potential or emerging health effects relating to occupational exposure to RF. The Register is administered by the Department of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Birmingham. The first follow-up study is under way, investigating mortality and cancer incidence. The complexity of recruiting participants from disparate workforces means that recruitment is continuing and the Register retains the potential to become a valuable resource for multiple types of studies. It is anticipated that the Register, together with similar databases from other sources, will ultimately provide a valuable source of evidence to inform future guidance and recommendations.
In 2000, the UK Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones report recognised the need for robust research into the health effects of occupational RF exposure. Several recommendations were made for future research and policy, including advice that a“ register of occupationally exposed workers
Discover more about the National Register of RF Workers including how you might enrol.
26 Radiation Protection Today www. srp-rpt. uk