1 austrian medical association (w) for and emf- and (emf ag-emf.pdf · guideline of the austrian...

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Guideline of the Austrian Medical Association (w) for the diagnosis and treatment of EMF- related health problems and illnesses (EMF syndrome) Consensus paper of the Ausfrian Medicar Association's EMF Working Group (cn< AG-EMF) Adopted at the meeting of environmental medicine officers of the Regional Medical Association's and the Austrian Medical Association on 3.d March ZO{ZnVienna. Introduction There has been a sharp rise in unspecific, often stress-associated health problems that inffeasingly present physicians with the challenge of complex differential diagnosis. A cause that has been accorded little attention so far is incieasing electrosmog exposure at home, at work and during leisure activities, occurring in actdition to chronic stress in personal and working life. It correiates with an overall situation of chronic stress that can lead to burnout. How can physicians respond to this development? The Austrian Medical Association has developed a guicieline for clifferential diagnosis and potential treatment of unspecific stress-related health problems associated with electrosmog. Its core element is a patient questioruraire consisting of a general assessment of stress symptoms and a specific assessment of electrosmog exposure. The guideiine is intended as an aid in diagnosing and treating EMF-relatecl health problems. Background Many people are increasit gly exposed, to various clegrees, to a combination of low ancl high frequency electric fielcis (EF), magnetic fielcls (MF) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) of different signal patterns, intensities and technical applications for varying periods of time, colloquially referrecl to as electrosmog. Physicians are often confronted with unspecific complaints without clearly identifiable causes (Huss and Röösli 2006). It has beå suspectecl that environmental conditions such as increasing exposure of the population to radio waves, emanating e.g. from cordless phones, mobile phone base stations, celi phones, GpRS, SMTS, data cards for laptop and notebook computers ancl wirelesi LAN (WLAN), but also exposure to electric and magnetic fielcls emanating from power lines, clevices and equipment, may play a causal role (Blake Levitt and Lai 2070). For the medical profession, this raises new challenges in cliagnosis and treatment. A central issue for 1

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Page 1: 1 Austrian Medical Association (w) for and EMF- and (EMF AG-EMF.pdf · Guideline of the Austrian Medical Association (w) for the diagnosis and treatment of EMF- related health problems

Guideline of the Austrian Medical Association(w) for the diagnosis and treatment of EMF-related health problems and illnesses (EMFsyndrome)

Consensus paper of the Ausfrian Medicar Association's EMFWorking Group (cn< AG-EMF)

Adopted at the meeting of environmental medicine officers of the Regional MedicalAssociation's and the Austrian Medical Association on 3.d March ZO{ZnVienna.

Introduction

There has been a sharp rise in unspecific, often stress-associated health problems thatinffeasingly present physicians with the challenge of complex differential diagnosis.A cause that has been accorded little attention so far is incieasing electrosmogexposure at home, at work and during leisure activities, occurring in actdition tochronic stress in personal and working life. It correiates with an overall situation ofchronic stress that can lead to burnout.

How can physicians respond to this development?

The Austrian Medical Association has developed a guicieline for clifferentialdiagnosis and potential treatment of unspecific stress-related health problemsassociated with electrosmog. Its core element is a patient questioruraire consisting ofa general assessment of stress symptoms and a specific assessment of electrosmogexposure.

The guideiine is intended as an aid in diagnosing and treating EMF-relatecl healthproblems.

Background

Many people are increasit gly exposed, to various clegrees, to a combination of lowancl high frequency electric fielcis (EF), magnetic fielcls (MF) and electromagneticfields (EMF) of different signal patterns, intensities and technical applications forvarying periods of time, colloquially referrecl to as electrosmog.

Physicians are often confronted with unspecific complaints without clearlyidentifiable causes (Huss and Röösli 2006). It has beå suspectecl that environmentalconditions such as increasing exposure of the population to radio waves, emanatinge.g. from cordless phones, mobile phone base stations, celi phones, GpRS, SMTS,data cards for laptop and notebook computers ancl wirelesi LAN (WLAN), but alsoexposure to electric and magnetic fielcls emanating from power lines, clevices andequipment, may play a causal role (Blake Levitt and Lai 2070). For the medicalprofession, this raises new challenges in cliagnosis and treatment. A central issue for

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the causal attribution of symptoms is the assessment of variation in health problemsdepending on time and locatiory which is particularly relevant for environmentalcauses such as EMF exposure.

Austria is currently rolling out the fourth generation of mobile telephony (LTE), aswell as smart metering (for electricity, gas ancl water consumption), resulting inadditional EMF exposure of the population.

New radio technologies and applications have been introducecl without certaintyabout their health effects, raising new challenges for medicine. For instance, theissues of so-called non-thermal effects and potential long-term effects of low-doseexposure were hardly investigatecl at all prior to introduction. Some patients suspecta link between EMF exposure and their health problems. Moreover, physicians areincreasingly confronted with health probiems with unidentifiecl.unr"r. pursuing anevidence-based treatment strategy in this context is a challenge for clifferentialdiagnosis.

In Austria, there are no ciemocratically legitimizeci limits to protect the generalpopulation from EMF exposure. The recommendations of the WHO, coåpited by theInternational Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP 1.99g), arebased on a thermal model. These recommendations were aclopted by the EU in itsCouncil Recommend.ation of 1999 (EU-Ratsempfehlung 1999) and by Ausrria in itspre-standard ovE/ÖNoRM E 8850:2006 02 01 (ÖNORM 2006)withour taking intoaccount long-term non-thermal effects.

In August 2007, the Biolnitiative, an international group of experts, published acomprehensive report calling for preventive measures against EMF ä*pos.rre basedon the scientific evidence available (Biolnitiative200T). Consequently, the EuropeanEnvironment Agency compared electrosmog to other environmental hazards such asasbestos or benzene (EEA 2007).

In April 2009, a resolution of the European Parliament callecl for a rerriew of the EMFlimits in the EU Council Recommendation of 7999, which was based on theguidelines of the ICNIRP, with reference to the Biolnitiative Report (EU parliament200e).

In May 2011, the Parliamentary Assembiy of the Council of Europe adopted thereport "The potential dangers of electromagnetic fields and their effect ån theenvironment" (PACE 2077). The report calls for a number of measures to protecthumans and the environment, especially from high-frequenry electromagpetic fielcls.One of the recommendations is to "take all reasonable measures to recluce exposureto electromagnetic fields, especially to radio frequencies from mobile phones, andparticularly the exposure to children and yor:ng people who seem to be most at riskfrom head tumours".

Also in May 2077, a group of experts at the International Agency for Research onCancer, an agency of the WHO, classifiecl radiofrequency electromagnetic fielcls aspossibly carcinogenic (Group 2B) for humans (IARC 2011).

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A representative telephone survey (n:2048, age >74 years) carriecl out in 2004 nswitzerland yielded a frequency of s% (95% q 4-6%) for a self-athibuted"diagnosis" of electrosensitivity (Schreier et al. 2006).

In another survey carried out in Switzerlancl, in 2001, 394 responclents attributecispecific health problems to EMF exposure. Among others, the following symptomswere reported as occurring frequently: sleep problems (sg%), headachei (47%),nervousness (79%), fatigue (78"/") and difficulty concentrating (16%). Therespondents listed mobile phone base stations (74o/o), cell phone s (2,6%), cordlessphones (29y.) and high-voltage lines (27%) as causes. two Urirds of respondents hadtaken measures to reduce their symptoms, the most frequent measure being to avoiclexposure. Remarkably, only 73oÄ had consulted their physicians (Röösli et åt. ZOO+;.

While a 2006 study by Regel et al. describec{ no exposure effects, two provocationsfudies on exPosure of "electrosensitive" indivicluals and control subjlcts to mobilephone base station signals (GSM, UMTS or both) founcl a significant decline in well-being after UMTS exposure in the individuals reporting r..riitirrity (Zwamborn et al.2003, Eltiti et al. 2007). Analysis of the data available on exposure of people livingnear mobile phone base stations has yielded clear inclications of actvÄrse healtheffects (Santini et aL.2002. Navarro et al. 2003, Hutter et aL 2006, Abdel-Rassoul et al.2007, Bletfrter et al. 2008).

Baseci on the scientific literature on interactions of EMF with biological systems,several mechanisms of interaction are possible. A plausible mechanism at theintracellular and intercellular level, for instance, is interaction via the formation offree radicals or oxidative and nitrosative stress (Friedmann et al.2007, Simk6 2007,Pa112007, Bedard and Kraus e 2007, Pacher et aL 2007, Desai et at. 2009). It centres onthe increased formation of peroxynitrite (ONOO) from a reaction of nitrogenmonoxide (No) with superoxide (o2). Due to its relatively long half-life,peroxynitrite damages a iarge number of essential metaboli. p*."rr"s and cellcomponents.

This approach can serve as a plausible explanation of many of the health problems,symPtoms and their progression observed in the context of EMF

"*porrr.å. There are

increasing indications that EMF syndrome (EMFS) should be countåd among multi-system disorders (Pall2007) such as Chronic Fatigue Synclrome (CFS), MultipleChemical Sensitivity (MCS), fibromyalgia (FM) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder(PrsD).

In sweden, EMF syndrome is designated as electrohypersensitivity (EHS),considered a physical impairment ancl recognized as a disability. With reference touN Resolutron 48 /96, Annex, of 20 December 1993 (uN rgg3), iocal governmentsgrant support to inclividuals with EHS. Employees with EHS have a tignt to supportfrom their employers so as to enable them to work despite this impairÄent. Somehospitals in sweden provide rooms with low EMF expäsure.

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The Austrian Medical Association considers it its duty and its mission to providemembers of the medical profession with a compilation of the current statå of thescientific and political debate from a medical perspective and with specificrecommendations for action in this first guideline. The guideline can only beimproved by suggestions, criticism and amenclments. Due to the rapicl dlvelopmentof various technoiogies, the recommendations need to be aclapted on an ongoingbasis. We therefore invite all medical professionals to send contributions to the nextedition of the guicleline to the following email address: [email protected]

what to keep in mind when dealing with patients and EMF11 the case of unspecific health problems (see patient questionnaire) for which noclearly identifiable cause can be founcl, EN{F exposure shoulcl in principle be takeninto consideration as a potential cause, especialiy if the patient suspects that it maybe the cause.

How to proceed if EMF-related hearth problems are suspectedThe recommended approach to diagnosis ancl treatment is intenclecl as an aid andshould, of course, be modified as each individual case requires.

l. History of health problems and EMF exposure2. Examination and findings3. Measurement of EMF exposure4. Prevention or reduction of EMF exposure5. Diagnosis6. Treatment

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Initial Case HistoryPatient questionnaire if EMf .exposure is suspected

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Fig. 1: Flow chart for diagnosing EMF-relatecl hearth problems

5

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L. History of health problems and EMF exposureA patient questionnaire to facilitate a systematic history of health problems andEMF exposure, comPiled by the Austrian Medical Association's EMF WorkingGroup, is available for download at r,r'wr,rr. aerztekammer.at/ referateUmweltrneclizin.

The patient questionnaire consists of three sections:a) List of symptomsb) variation of health problems depending on time and locationc) Assessment of EMF exposure

a) List of symptoms

The list of symptoms in the patient questicnnaire serves to systematically quantifystress-related health problems regardless of their causes. It also includes questions onwhen the health probiems first occurred. Most EMF-related symptoms fall within thescope of so-called stress-related health problems, e.g. sleep problems, fatigue,exhaustion, lack of energy, restlessness, heart palpitations, blood pr"rrrrrJ problems,muscle and joint pain, heaclaches, depression, difficulty concentriting, forgeffulness,anxiety, urinary urgency, anomia, dizziness, tinnitus anci sensatiotrr åf pressure inthe head and the ears.

The health problems may range in severity from benign, temporary symptoms, suchas slight headaches or paraesthesia in the head when using a cell phone,io severe,debilitating symptoms that drastically impair physical ancl mental health.

b) variation of health problems depending on time ancl location

The answers to questions on when and where the health problems occur or rececie,and when ancl where the symptoms increase or are particularly eviclent, provicleindications as to whether the health problems may be related to specific åmes andlocations. They must be interpreted in the context of the patient'sliving conclitionsand circumstances.

c) Assessment of EMF exposure

Regardless of whether or not the patient suspects EMF exposure as a cause, thesequestions should be used to assess the kind of exposure that exists. It is important tonote that only certain types of EMF exposure can be assesserl by means of thequestionnaire, such as use of cell phones and cordless phones. Detection of othergpes of EMF exposure, e.g. due to high frequency transmitter sites or the electric ormagnetic fields of power lines, generally requires measurements (see section 3:Measurement of EMF exposure). In principle, questions shoulcl be asked to assessEMF exposure at home and at work, keeping in mincl that the degree of EMFexposure rr.ay vary at different times.

2. Examination and findingsThere are no findings specific to EMF, which makes diagnosis ancl differentialdiagnosis a considerable challenge. A methocl that has proven useful is to use stress-

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associated finclings for diagnosis and follow-up and to evaluate them synoptically.Basic diagnostic tests should be carriecl out as a first step, followecl by measurementsof EMF exposure as a second step. Only then can specific diagnostic iests beconsidered.

Cardiovascular system

Basic diagnostic tests

' Blood Pressure and heart rate (in all cases resting heart rate in the morning whilestill in bed), including self-monitoring, possibly ieveral times a day, e.g. atdifferent places and with journaling of subjective well-being for a *""t.

Sp e cific di agno stic t e s t s

' 24-houl blood pressure monitoring (absence of night-time decline). 24-hour ECG (heart rhythm diagnosis)' 24-L'our heart rate variability HRV (autonomous nervous system diagnosis)

Laboratory tests

Basic diagnostic tests

' Early morning urineo Adrenalineo Noradrenaline

" Noradrenaline/adrenalinequotient" Dopamineo Serotonin

. Early morning urine

" 6-OH meiatonin sulphate. Saliva

o Cortisol (8 am, 1,2 arnand 8 pm). Blood

Blood count and differential blood countFasting blood glucose ancl postprandial blood glucoseHBAIcTSH

tr

o

o

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Additional iliagnostic tests - specific iniliaiilual parameters depencling on symptomsLate morning urineo Histamine, glycineo Gamma-aminobutyric acid GABAo Glutamate

Saliva

" Alpha amylase A (10 am)' Dehydroepiandrosterone DHEA (g am ancl g pm)Bloodo Homocysteineo Intracellular ATP

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o Intracellular glutathione (redox balance)" Malondialdehyde(lipictperoxidation). 8-hyclroxydeoxyguanosine (DNA oxidation)o Interferon-gamma(iFNg)o Interleukin-1 (IL-l)o Interleukin-6 (IL-6)o Interleukin-10([-10)o Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFa)" NF-kappaBo Vitamin 82 (FAD and riboflavin) (whole bloocl). Vitamin 86 (whole bloocl)o Vitamin D

' Ubichinon (Q 10)o Selenium (whole bloocl)" Zinc (whole blood)o Magnesium (whole blood)o Differential lipid profile

3. Measurement of EMF exposurel

In general, a wide variety of forms of EMF exposure (e.g. from cordless phones,wireless internet access, electrical instaliations ancl electrical clevices in tle building,mobile phone base stations, radio and TV transmitters, high-voltage lines ortransformer stations) may be the root causes of health problems.

EMF measurements should be plamecl and carriecl out by specially trainecl andexperienced measurement engineers.See e.g.

.

After the measurements have been commissionecl by the patient and carried out, theresults should be discussed with the attending physician or a physician familiar withthe issue.

The measurements should be carried out in accordance with relevant stanclards, e.g.the guidelines of the Professional Association of German Building Biologists (VDB-Richtlinien). In acldition to the readings, the measurement report should includesuggestions for a potential reduction of exposure.

Basic measurements

Loru-fre quency nlternnting magnetic fietdsIsotropic magnetic field sensor (for all spatial axes) in the frequency range from 5 Hzto 2kHz, e.g. near the bed, near the ciesk with source identifiiation (shoit-termorientation measurement); in adclition, long-term measurements e.g. cluring the nightcan be useful.

Lozu -frequency nlternnting electric f.elds

' EMF measurements are not covered by statutory health insurance.

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Isolated isotropic electric field sensor (for all spatial axes) in the frequency rangefrom 5 Hz to 2kHz, e.g. near the bed, near the clesk with source identification.High-freq uency electromagne tic r adiation

Broadband measurements ancl/or band-selective measurements of commonfrequencies in the high frequency range, e.g. GSM base stations (900 ancl 1800 MHz),DECT base stations (1900 M}{z), UMTS (2100 MHz), WLAN (24s0 ancl5000 MHz),possibly wiMAX (3400-3600 }/'H.z), LTE (2500-2700M]H2), within a clefinedmeasurement space such as the head and torso area on the bed, or the desk chair,with source identification (e.g. acoustic diagnosis); identification of maximumreading; peak detector.

Additional measurements

High-frequency electromagnetic r aditttion

Frequency-selective measurements (individual frequencies) of common frequenciesin the high frequency range, within a defined measurement space such as the headand torso area on the bed, or the desk chair, with source identification; identificationof maximum reading; peak detector. The measurements shoulcl be adaptecl to eachindividual case, e.g. to account for short-wave transmitters, rad.ar, " dfuty power,, andother high frequency sources.

Benchmarks

The following aspects shoulti be taken into account when evaluating the readings ineach case: duration of exposure, exposure during the night or the diy, multipleexposure to different EMF sources, additional exposure to noise, chemicals etc.,patienfs inclividual regulation capacity status. Basecl on epidemiological stuciies(Biolnitiative 2007, Kundi ancl Hutter 2009) and measurements relevänt in practice(Standard of Building Biology Testing Methods, SBM 2008), the Austrian MedicalAssociation's EMF Working Group has recommendetl preliminary benchmarks.

Irrespective of the ICNIRP recommendations for acute effects, the followingbenchmarks apply to regular exposure of more than four hours per ciay.

High-frequency electromngnetic radintion (as power flou density)

The benchmarks listed are intended to be applied to inciividual types of racliation, e.g. GSM,UMTS, WiMAX, TETRA, radio, TV, DECT or WLAN, and refer to-peak levels. The bänchmarks donot apply to radar, which must be evaluated separately. Highly critical types of radiation, such asperiodic signals (mobile telephony, DECT, WLAN, digital broadcasting.. j, should be criticallyevaluated, especially if levels are far above normal, while less critical types, such as non-pulsecl ornon-periodic signals (USW, shortwave, medium ancl long wave, analogue broatlcasting), may beconsiderecl more leniently.

1671t -frequency nlternnting magnetic fields

" >1000 pW / m2 (>1 mW/m2)' 10-1000 pW /m2 (0.01-1 mW /m2)" 1-10 ttW /m2 (0.001-0.01 mW/m2)o (f pW / m2 (<0.001 mW/m2)

' >400 nT (>0.a pT)

' 100-400 nT (0.1-0.4 pT)

very far above normalfar above normalslightly above normalwithin normal limits

very far above normalfar above normal

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The benchmarks are intended to be apptied to the range up to and around S0 Hz; higherfrequencies and distinct harmonics should be more critically evaluated. Mains ..rrru.rt (50 Hz) andtraction current (76.7 Hz) should be assesserl separately. Long-term measurements shoulcl becarried out - also and especially during the night - if intense ancl frequent fielcl variations occurover time; in such cases, evaluation shoulcl be based on the arithmetic mean over the period ofexPosure.

Lout -f-requency alternating electric fields

" 20-100 nT (0.02-0.1 rrT)" <20 nT (<0.02 pT)

. )10Y/m" 1.5-10 Y /m. 0.3-1.5Y/mo <0.3Y/m

slightly above normalwithin normal limits

very far above normalfar above normalslightly above normalwithin normal limits

The benchmarks (potential-free measlrremerrt) are intendeci to be appliert to the range up to anciaround 50 Hz; higher frequencies ancl tiistinct harmonics shoulcl be more critically e-valuated.

4. Prevention or reduction of EMF exposurePreventing or reducing EMF exposure after consultation of a measurement engineeris advantageous for several reasons:

a) to prevent and reduce risks to the indiviclual ancl to public health,b) to treat the causes of EMF syndrome anc{c) to aid in identifying any links to health problems.

There are numerous potential causes for EMF exposure above normal limits, and thisguideline can only give a few exampies. Further information can be found, forinstance, in the builtling biologv checklist "Gebäudecheckliste Baubiologie" (LandSalzburg and VDB 2009) as well as in the information folder on electrosåog @andSalzbwg2009), which also lists contact data of measurement engineers, sources formeasurement clevices and materials to reduce exposure. In most cases, it will benecessary to consult an experienced measurement engineer.

Basecl on documented cases, it is useful to recommencl that patients take certainmeasures (also as preventive measures) to eiiminate or reduce EMF exposure, whichmay lead to an alleviation of heaith problems within days or weeks. Such measuresinclude the following:

' Discornecting (unplugging) the power suppiy of all DECT corclless phones - theuse of "classical" cord phones is recommended insteacl.

' Disconnecting (unplugging) the power supply of all WLAN access points orWLAN routers. (NB: Many LAN routers now come equipperl with ädclitionatwLAN.)

' Disconnecting the power supply in the bedroom (switching off the fuse) whilesleeping' - NB: The bene{its should be weighed against the potential risk ofaccidents and the use of a flashlight should be recommended.

' Disconnecting the power supply to all non-essential electric circuits,the entire flat or building. NB: See note above,

possibly in

' Moving the bed or clesk to a different place with lower exposure, such as anotherroom or floor; in case of externai high frequenry sources, rooms facing away fromthe source should be chosen.

I Discontinuing use of certain appliances and lamps.

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' Retrofitting the electrical wiring of the building to reduce residual current andequalising current (installation of a residuar current device RCD).

We also recommencl following the 10 medical rules for cell phone use published bythe Vienna Medical Association:htbp:/'n'ww2.aekwien.at nedia /plakat Hanely.pclf.

5. DiagnosisA diagnosis of EMF syndrome will largely be basecl on a comprehensive case history,focusing in particular on correlations between health problemi and times ancl placesof EMF exPosure, as well as the progression of symptåms over time. In adclition,measurements of EMF exposure and the results of additional diagnostic tests(laboratory tests, cardiovascular system) serve to support the ttia[nosis. Moreover,all other potential causes should be excluded as far as possible.

We recommencl that the code Z,58.4 (Exposure to radiation) under the InternationalClassification of Diseases (ICD-10) be used for EMF synclrome for the time being.

6. Treatment

The primary method of treahnent should consist in the prevention or reduction ofEMF exposure, taking care to reduce or eliminate all sources of EMF if possible.Many examples have shown that such measures can prove effective.

Since sufficient EMF reduction is not possible in all cases, other measures can andmust be considered. These include not only keeping adclitional exposure to aminimum, but also enhancing and increasing resistance to EMF. In some cases,positive effects of holistic medicine treatments have been reportecl.

We take it as given that appropriate heatment will be initiatecl after diagnosis if thepatient presents manifest illness. Regardless of such treatmen! the above-mentionedmeasures to reduce exposure shoulcl also be taken.

There is increasing evidence that a main effect of EMF on patients is the reduction ofoxidative ancl nitrosative regulation capacity. This hypothesis also explainsobservations of changing EMF sensitivity and the large number of symptomsreported in the context of EMF exposure. From the current perspective. it appearsuseful to recommend,a treatment approach such as those gaining grouncl for multi-system disorders, with the aim of minimizing aclverse peroxynitriie effects.

In summary, the following treatment measures appear aclvantageous, clepending onthe individual case:

a) Reduction of exposure to electric and magnetic fielcls and high frequenryelec troma gnetic waves.For more information see e.g. the information folder on electrosmog atwww. salzbur g. gv. at irrfomappe-elektrosmo g. pdf .

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b) Lifestyle coaching (exercise, nutrition, addictive substances, sleeping habits etc.)and stress reduction measures (reduction of general stress and work stress), as wellas methods to increase stress resistance (autogenic training, yoga,progressive musclerelaxation, breathing techniques, meditation, tai chi, qui gång).

c) Holistic treatments such as anti-oxidative ancl anti-nitrosative therapies, traceelements, vitamins, amino acids.

d) Treatment of symptoms until the causes have been identifiecl and eliminatecl.

References

Abdel-Rassoul G, El-Fateh oA, salem MA, Michael A, Farahat F, El_Batanouny M,Salem E' 2007. Neurobehavioral effects among inhabitants around mobile phone basestations. Neuro toxico 1o gy. Mar ; 2g (2) : 43 4_40 .

Blake Levitt B and Lai H. 2010. Biological effects from exposure to electromagneticradiation emitLed by cell tower base stations and other antenna arrays. Environ. Rev.78: 369-395. Doi:10. 1 799 / A70-078.

Bedard K and Krause Krr.2007. T'he NoX Family of Ros-Generating NADPHoxidases: Physiology and pathophysiology. nnysiol. Rev. gz: 245_g1g.Biolnitiative. 2007.

-B^ioinitiative Report A Rationale for a Biologically-basecl public

Exposure standard for Electromagnetic Fielcls (ELF and RF).

Bletkrer M, schlehofer B, Breckenkamp I, Kowall B, schmiedel s, Reis u, potthoff p,Schiiz J, Berg-Beckhoff G. 2008. Mobile phone base stations and adverse healtheffects: phase 7 of apopulation-based, cross-sectional stuciy in Germany. occup.Environ. Med. 2009 Feb; 66(2):718-23. Epub Nov. 1g.

Desai NR, Kesari KK, Agarwal A.2009. Pathophysiology of cell phone radiation:oxidative stress and carcinogenesis with focus c,n maleleproductive system. Reprod.Biol. Endocrinoi. Oct. 22;7:714.

Eltiti s, wallace D, Ridgewell A, Zougkou K, Russo R, sepulveda F, Mirshekar_Syahkal D, Rasor P, Deeble R, Fox 8.2007. Does short-term exposure to mobile phonebase station signals- increase symptoms in individuals who report sensitivity toelectromagnetic fielcls? A double-btind randomized provocation study. Environ.Health Perspect. Nov; 115(11):1603-g.

EU Parliament 2008: European Parliament resolutio n of 2April 2009 on healthconcerns associated with electromagnetic fielc{s (200g / 221 1 (INI)).

po-

EU-Ratsempfehlung 1999: EMPFEHLUNG DES RATES vom 12. Juri 1999 zurBegrerzung der Exposition cler Bevölkerung gegeniiber elektromagnetischen Feidern(0 Hz - 300 GHz) (7eee/sle/EG).

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EEA2007: European Environment Agenry, Radiation risk from everyday clevicesassessed. w\ /w.eea.europa.eu /hishliehts /radiati k-from-eveASSESSCCl

Friecimann J, Kraus s, Hauptmann Y, schiff Y, Seger R, 2007. Mechanism of short-term ERK activation by electromagnetic fields at mobile phone frequencies. Biochem.J.405,559-568.

Huss A and Röösli M. 2006. Consultations in primary care for symptoms attributedto electromagnetic fielcls--a survey among general practitioners. BMC Public HealthOct. 30; 6:267.

Hutter HP, Moshammer H, wallner P, Kundi M. 2006. subjective symptoms,sleeping problems, ancl cognitive performance in subjects living near mobile phonebase stations. Occup. Environ. Med. 63:307-g1.g

IARC 2011: IARC CLASSIFIES RADIOFREQUENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDSAS POSSIBLY CARCINOGENIC TO HUMANS 37 May 2017.hLtp : / / www. iarc. fr/ en/ media-c enLr e / pr / 2077 / p dfs / pr2Og_E. p ctf

ICNIRP 1998: Guidelines for limiting exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic,and electromagnetic fields (up to 300 GHz). International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Health Phys. 1998 Apt;7a@):49a-522.

Kundi M and Hutter HP. 2009. Mobile phone base stations - Effects on wellbeing andhealth. Pathophysiology 2009 Aug; 16(2-Z):722-35. Epub Mar. 4.

Land Salzburg and VDB. 2009. Gebäudecheckiiste Baubiologie. n'ww.baubiologie.net

Land Salzburg. 2009. Informationsmappe Elektrosmog.n wr.t'. salzbur g. gv. at / infomappe-elektrosmo g. pdf

Navarro EA, Segura J, Portol€s M, Gdmez-Perretta de Mateo C. 2003. The MicrowaveSyndrome: A Preliminary Study in Spain. Electromagnetic Biology ancl Medicine(formerly Electro- and Magnetobiology),22 (2009) L67 - 769.

ÖNOnv 2006: Vornorm ÖVE7ÖNOnH{ E 8850:200 6 02 07, Elektrische, magnetischeuncl elektromagnetische Felder im Frequenzbereich von 0 Hz bis 300 GHz -Beschränkung der Exposition von Personen.

Pall ML. 200T.Explaining "Unexplained Illnesses": Disease Paradigm for ChronicFatigue Syndrome, Multiple Chemical sensitivity, Fibromyalgia, post-TraumaticStress Disorder, GuU war Syndrome, and others. Harrington park press.

PACE 2011: Council of Europe - Parliamentary Assembly. The potential dangers ofelectromagnetic fielcls ancl their effect on the environment. Resolution, Doc. 1815,Text adopted by the Stancling Committee, acting on behalf of the Assembly, on27 May 2017.htbp: / /www.assembly.coe.int/ Mainf.asp?link: / Documents / AdopteclText/ ta11 / ERES1815.htm

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Regel sj, Negovetic s, Röösli M, Berdinas v, schuderer J, Huss A, Lott u, Kuster N,Achermarrr P.2006. UMTS base station-like exposure, well-being, and cognitiveperformance. Environ. Health Perspect. Aug; 1 14(g ):7270 -5.

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schreier N, Fluss A, Röösli M. 2006. The prevarence of symptoms attributed toelectromagnetic fieltl exposure: a cross-sectional representative survey inSwitzerland. Soz. Praventivmed. 51, 202-209.

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Download of guidelines and patient questionnaire and contact to the AusfrianMedical Association:lrww.aerztekammer.aVref erate Umweltmedizin

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Patient questionnaire

Last name, firstname, Mr/Ms

Place, clate

a) List of symptoms

How often have you experienced the following health problems in the past 30 days?Please mark the appropriate box in everv line.d rare Dox ln eve e.

Symptoms Never Rarely Sometimes

Often v"ryoften

If yes, sincewhen

Imnnfh/rroerl

Anxiehy tr tr D tr nTightness rn chest tr tr tr tr tr

Depression tr tr tr tr tr

Difficulty concentrating tr tr n tr IRestlessness, tension tr n tr n tr

Hyperaclivity tr tr tr tr nIrritability tr tr n tr D

Exhaustion tr tr tr tr D

Fatigue n tr tr tr tr

Anonria (d ifficuity findins n.ords) tr tr n n tr

Forgetfulness u n tr tr tr

Heaclaches n tr tr n tr

Dizziness tr D tr u tr

Sleep problems I D tr n tr

Noise sensitivity tr tr il tr tr

Sensatioir of pressure in the ears tr D tr tr trEar noises, tinnifus tr tr tr tr f1

Burning sensation in the eyes tr tr tr tr trNen'ous Lrladder, urinarv urgenL-y tr tr D n tr

IJeart palpitations tr ! . n tr

Blood pressure problems tr tr I D tr

Muscle tension I tr I D n

|oint pain tr tr tr tr tr

Skin conditions tr tr n tr DOther (please state)

:.' .' .' " tr D tr D D

Other (please state) u tr n n tr

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b) Variation of health problems depending on time and location

Which health problems do you p"rcåirrä toEe the

most severe?

Since rvlren have yor.r been experie".r"g th"*health problerns?

At n'hat times do thc. health probl"rrrs uc..rrr?

Is there a place where tire health proUG*s ,".reuse

or are particularly severe?

(e.g. at work, at home)

Is there a place r.r,here the health proOGrr.,, ."..eau *disappear altogether?

(e.g. at rvork, at home, other places, at the home of a

friend, on holiday, ai your r.t,eekend home, in tire

woods)

Do you have an explanation fo, these t,eulth

Are you experiencing stress, e.g. clue to .hanges illyour personal life or at work?

Piease Iist any environm entul urseri*enGiäI*measurements or measures taken up to now.

Please list any environmentut "l"ai.;* a*gr-s*

and freatrnents given up to non,

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c) Assessment of EMF exposure at home and at work

1. Do you use a cell phone at home or at work?

How long have you been using it (years/monihs)?How much do you use it to make calls per day (hours/minutes)?Have you noticed any relation to your health problems?

2. Do you have a corclless phone (DECT base station) at home (H) or at work (w)?

How long have you had it (years/months)?How much do you use it to make calls per day (hours/minutes)?Have you noticed any relation to your health problems?

3. Do you use wireless internet access (WLAN, wiMAX, UMTS) at home (H) or at work (w)?

lf yes, how long have you been using it (years/months)?How much do you use it per day (hours/minutes)?Have you noticed any relation to your health problems?

4' Do you use energ-y-efficient light bulbs in your immediate vicinity (desk lamp, dining table lamp,reading lamp, bedside lamp) at home (H) or at work (W)?

If yes, how long have you been using them (years/months)?For how long are you exposed to them per day (hours/minutes)?Have you noticecl any relation to your health problems?

5. Is there a cell tower (mobile phone base station) near your home (H) or your workplace (W)?

If yes, how long has it been there (years/months)?At what distance is it from your home/workplace?Have you noticecl any relation to your health problems?

6. Are there any power lines, transformer stations or railway lines near your home (H) or yourworkplace (W)?

If yes, for how long are you exposed to them per day (hours/minutes)?Have you noticecl any relation to your health problems?

6. Do you use Bluetooth devices in your car?

If yes, how long have you been using them?Have you noticecl any relation to your health problems?

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