Harmful Effects of Microwave Radiation

Cancer Risk

• While the public has voiced concern over microwaves as a potential cause of cancer, the Food and Drug Administration has stated that this type of radiofrequency energy operates on too low a level to cause problems. The Health Physics Society notes that heating food with microwaves does not irradiate it or make it unsafe to eat.

Pacemaker Problems

• The Federal Communications Commission states that microwave radiation from cell phones could interact with cardiac pacemakers at extreme close range. While this problem seems to occur only with older types of pacemakers, the Commission recommends that pacemaker owners avoid keeping their phones in their breast pocket.

Safe Limits

• Manufacturers and organizations have recommended limits on the amount of microwaves consumer devices can produce. The Federal Communications Commission, for instance, requires cell phones to emit microwaves at a maximum absorption level of 1.6 watts per kilogram. The Food and Drug Administration has also issued strict guidelines on microwave ovens' maximum emission levels.