Investigations on microwave radiation exposure

The extensive use of microwave devices calls for the radiation control of equipment, work places and environment also in Hungary. Because of the lack of comprehensive knowledge about the biological effects of microwaves there exist no internationally accepted safety standards. The power density values measured at work places seldom exceed the level of 100μW/cm2 recommended in Hungary. Investigations were made with humans and animals. Several persons working in telecommunication for more than five years complained of headache, fatigue, irritability and some vegetative symptoms, but no expressed health damage was observed. Experiments on animals supplied new data about the thermal effects of microwaves on embryos, including effects on liver and brain. To solve the problems of microwave radiation protection Hungarian researchers have started interdisciplinary cooperation.