How does electromagnetic radiation affect the body?

The term "electromagnetic radiation" refers to the entire range of energy transfer via waves, including microwaves and sound. It does not refer to any specific object.

Adequate light radiation damages skin and can cause melanoma, or skin cancer. Overexposure to microwaves or X-rays can kill cells.

We are surrounded and exposed to natural electromagnetic radiation every day of our lives; we also add exposure from man-made applications, such as home stereos and cell phones, to medical imaging, microwave cooking, radio transmissions, and power transmission lines. As with chemical agents, whatever the source, the benefit or toxicity is a function of the "dose", not the form.

Electromagnetic radiation can affect the body in various ways:

1. Ionizing radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays, can damage DNA and lead to mutations or cancer.
2. Non-ionizing radiation, like radiofrequency and microwave radiation, can cause tissue heating and potentially lead to burns or other thermal effects.
3. Prolonged exposure to certain types of non-ionizing radiation, such as from mobile phones or Wi-Fi devices, has been associated with potential health risks, although research on this topic is ongoing and findings are mixed.
4. Extremely high levels of electromagnetic radiation, such as those from nuclear accidents or industrial sources, can cause acute radiation sickness and other serious health effects.
5. Some individuals may also experience symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or sleep disturbances from exposure to electromagnetic fields, although these effects are not fully understood and may vary between individuals.