Review of theories of effect of microwave fields on living matter

There is a growing concern about the effect of man-made (anthropogenic) electromagnetic fields on the health of human beings. In particular, the voice has been raised about the possible health effects of fields in the microwave (GHz and shortwave) region. There are various so called epidemiological studies which, in general, lead to very uncertain or ill-defined conclusions. On the other hand, number of beneficial applications of microwaves in diverse areas of health and biological sciences is increasing. A simple conclusion to be drawn is that the effect depends upon the frequency and amplitude and if the organism has some symmetry direction the effect may also depend upon the direction of the field in relation to the inherent symmetry of the organism.