HEALTH RISK IMPLICATIONS OF MAGNETIC-FIELD EXPOSURES

Magnetic field exposures pose serious questions to the public. The sci ence is not sufficiently clear or consistent to result in a consensus. Some scientists view the data as strongly suggestive and argue that i f the association is true, the ubiquity of exposure may be resulting i n a marked underestimation of the actual risk. Others argue that the i nconsistencies in the data and the specific limitations of the studies suggest that there is no association and no reason for concern. The s tate of the science is such that a definitive resolution is unlikely i n the next few years. In light of this uncertainty, I believe that the most prudent course of action is the prevention or limitation of expo sure where feasible at limited cost and inconvenience. Be it at home o r at work, prevention of exposure is simply good public health practic e.