Microwave Bioeffects. Current Status and Concepts

The information on microwave bioeffects /MWBE/ is derived from animal experimentation, model studies and epidemiological research on the health status of persons exposed occupationally to MW. The analysis of MWBE requires the consideration of a chain of events: biophysical mechanisms - the primary interaction, and physiological mechanisms - immediate local and generalized effects, and late effects. Animal experiments may be divided into acute high dose and chronic low dose exposures. High dose effects can be explained in terms of the field theory, non-uniform deep body heating and its physiological consequences. Such considerations are insufficient for the explanation of chronic exposure effects, particularly frequency and/or modulation dependent effects in the nervous and the hematopoietic systems. Quantum mechanical considerations constitute a promising approach. These statements are substantiated by the description of experimental systems and obtained results. Human epidemiological studies are far less informative because of their scarcity and insufficient quantitation of exposure conditions; the available data are reviewed. Practical implications for establishing permissible exposure levels and safety rules, as well as research needs are indicated.