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Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity

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    • 13 SEP 14

    Legal and Public Health Problems of the Wireless Age

    PublicCitizen
    Consumer Law & Policy Blog
    Monday, September 08, 2014
    Legal and Public Health Problems of the Wireless Age

    Guest post by Deborah Kopald

    [Deborah Kopald (BA, Harvard; MBA, MIT Sloan School of Management) is an environmental health and public policy consultant and author who has developed and overseen the passage of legislative initiatives and has served as a guest expert at various media outlets. In 2013, she organized and moderated The Conference on Corporate Interference with Science and Health in New York City. The conference proceedings were published in Reviews on Environmental Health.]

    Excerpt

    The use of Wi-Fi and other wireless technologies has created problems. “An Open Letter to Phillips Exeter Academy about Wi-Fi”, which I wrote to my alma mater, details the public health problem Wi-Fi has created and some legal ramifications of its use.
    SNIP
    The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) in conjunction with the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (the United States Access Board) put out a report in 2005 that stated that for a building to be accessible, Wi-Fi should be avoided in favor of fiber optic connectivity; if used, Wi-Fi was to be confined by foil-backed drywall or equivalent barrier.
    SNIP

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    • 15 AUG 14

    Links to Swedish EHS websites in English

    In response to a recent email message where I mentioned it was unfortunate that the new Swedish FEB website was not in English, I received a message from Agneta Jonsson listing a number of Swedish web sites using the Google English translator. See this message on my website for those links.

    Don

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    • 30 JUL 14

    Alasdair Philips on last post: Germany – Important Court Victory for Electro Hyper Sensitivity Victim

    I have some doubts about aspects of this news.

    The judgement is for loss of earning capacity due to occupational exposure to x-rays from working close to a 24 MW (yes, megawatt!) pulsed magnetron in military attack radar units – which would also have exposed him to excess microwave RF energy, but the judgement was (cleverly) just for damage due to ionizing x-ray exposure above the allowed occupational limit in Germany.
    He claimed EHS (as we know it) but the judgment was specifically not for that as I understand it and I believe hypersensitivity due to non-ionising RF was not formally investigated by the court.

    I can’t get to the bottom of what EHS usually stands for in Germany, but it seems to be related to “Occupational Health & Safety” law rather than electrohypersensitivity. There are multiple large companies offering “EHS Consultancy” – and certainly not for EHS as we call EMF/RF sensitivity.

    Best wishes

    Alasdair Philips

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    • 29 JUL 14

    Germany – Important Court Victory for Electro Hyper Sensitivity Victim

    from Martin Weatherall:

    EHS of a former German Army Radar-mechanic acknowledged as occupational disease by the court of appeal for administrative litigation in German state Schleswig-Holstein (Schleswig-Holsteinisches Oberverwaltungsgericht)

    3 LB 21/11, September 13, 2012

    The plaintiff worked for the German army (Bundeswehr) from 1970 to 1992 as a mechanic for Radar systems. While working he was exposed to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Since 1973 the plaintiff suffered from inflammation, infectious diseases and palpitations. From 1976 he also suffered from agitation, sleep disorders, fatigue, lack of concentration and extreme forgetfulness, extreme headaches, disorder of the immune system, food allergies and other allergic symptoms, non-functioning eyesight, sweats, exhaustion until mid 90ies.
    SNIP

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    • 15 JUL 14

    Desert Rose and the Story of Stray Currents

    From Truthout
    Monday, 14 July 2014 10:05 By Daniel Ross, Truthout | Report

    EXCERPT

    When Kathy Seacrist looks back over the past eight or so years, 2007 marked the beginning of a long nightmare. It was the year that her son, John McDonald, 37 at the time, started suffering from seizures.

    “John was so healthy. Ate healthy. Everything. He was really buff. All my girlfriends fancied him,” she said. McDonald, his daughter Malia, and Seacrist all lived together at her home in Desert Rose, a subsidized housing community in Palm Desert, California.

    In 2009, Seacrist’s own health began to deteriorate rapidly. “It started with terrible sinus infections and got progressively worse. I had slurred speech, my hands couldn’t stop shaking,” she said. By 2010, Seacrist, naturally slight, almost birdlike, someone always proud of staying trim and fit, thought that she was on the brink of death. “I was down to 82 pounds. For a while, doctors thought that I had MS. I told my mom, ‘If it’s my time to go, it’s my time to go.’ ”

    SNIP

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    • 22 MAY 14

    CSIRO scientist Dr. David McDonald speaks about his electrosensitivity

    On 28 February 2013, a decision in the Australian Federal Court’s Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAAT)]awarded compensation to CSIRO research scientist Dr. David McDonald for his ill health (headaches, nausea and dizziness) as a result of exposure to Wi-Fi and computer work in his office. A news article about this case was published in September 29, 2013 (Link Here)

    Now Dr. McDonald has spoken out about his experience with electrosensitivity in a Youtube video.

    SNIP

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    • 16 APR 14

    A personal Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) case study

    From Steve Weller:

    Introduction:

    My name is Steven Weller and I wrote this Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) case study that is included with this covering statement with the hope it may be of benefit to those who either find themselves in a similar position to me, or, maybe just interested in a getting a better understanding of what EHS is and the likely cause.

    The study documents my personal journey towards self-diagnosis as being EHS, the ensuing questions it raised, along with information which might assist fellow sufferers to better cope with a condition which, until relatively recently, was unknown on our planet.
    SNIP

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    • 07 APR 14

    Conclusions of the Canadian report confirm that EHS research, and its review, are polluted by the bad science

    From the blog of Dariusz Lesczcynski: Between a Rock and a Hard Place

    Excerpt

    Recent publication of the Canadian report on Safety Code 6 (RF-EMF and health) brought again to limelight the problem of electromagnetic hypersensitivity – EHS.

    Yet again, scientists and lay audiences were fed with the standard mantra in the Canadian report: “The symptoms are real, but what causes them is a mystery”. The same mantra is propagated by WHO, ICNIRP and numerous expert committees.

    I have the feeling that this mantra was introduced to the EMF research area few years ago for the sole purpose to “get the EHS people off our backs”. Designers of this mantra assumed that by showing compassion for the suffering of EHS people they will alleviate tensions that exist between EHS sufferers and decision-makers.

    They were mistaken. The mantra did not alleviate tensions and EHS sufferers more and more forcefully demand solution to their problem. Simple admission that their symptoms and suffering are real is not enough. What is needed is both, precautionary approach and a serious research effort to find out what and how causes EHS.

    Unfortunately the arena of EHS research is polluted with bad science. Badly designed studies waste money and produce bad conclusions. This status quo is perpetuated and new funding is granted for new badly designed studies. Are scientists gone mad? Don’t they understand what they are doing?

    SNIP

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    • 18 FEB 14

    British Society for Ecological Medicine EMF/EMR and Health Conference

    ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION AND HEALTH: EVIDENCE, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT
    9am to 5.30pm Friday 7th March 2014 – book your place now!
    Hallam Conference Room, Hallam St, London W1W 6JJ

    Come and hear leading scientists, medics and other experts present the latest information about health effects caused by exposure to electric and magnetic fields and radio-frequency microwave fields. The talks are aimed at people who do not have expert knowledge of electromagnetic radiation and health and will be suitable for members of the general public. However, enough detail will be presented to also be valuable for medical practitioners and other health workers. The speakers will be available to talk with participants during refreshment breaks and at lunchtime.
    SNIP

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    • 11 NOV 13

    ELECTRICAL SENSITIVITIES and the ELECTRICAL ENVIRONMENT

    Cyril W. Smith, Ph.D.

    A shortened and edited version of notes written for and in cooperation with The Breakspear Hospital, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 4FD, U.K. The writer has been helping their electrically hypersensitive patients since 1982.

    What are Electrical Sensitivities?
    Many persons suffer from sensitivities to certain foods and environmental chemicals which cause them discomfort, or even in extreme cases prevent them from functioning in any effective manner. Even the most minute amounts of these substances may on occasions ‘trigger’ reactions which are specific to each individual. Warnings regarding nuts, peanuts or gluten are commonly found displayed on food products. When a sensitivity reaction occurs, some regulatory system within the body has ceased to function properly and gives alarm signals, calling for an unjustified panic reaction. Usually, it is the autonomic nervous system (ANS) which is the first to become compromised in this way. This system controls all the involuntary body functions. Thus, any part or function of the body might become affected by the same allergen acting in different people which is why such effects do not show up in medical statistics.
    SNIP

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    • 10 SEP 13

    Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Breakout Session/Workshop

    From Magda Havas

    Announcing an Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Breakout Session/Workshop

    OCTOBER 26, 2013

    Chronic Disease:
    Highlighting Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, Lyme, Mycotoxicity, Autism, Cancer and Much More
    This October AAEM will host an extraordinary conference in Phoenix, Arizona. We invite you to seek, connect, and become part of the discussion while earning 26.25 CMEs. This fall we present “Chronic Disease: Highlighting Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, Lyme, Mycotoxicity, Autism, Cancer and Much More.” Our faculty will deliver the latest in evidence-based continuing medical education.

    SNIP

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    • 07 AUG 13

    ‘Voodoo science’ will not solve the causality-problem of EHS

    From the blog “Between a Rock and a Hard Place” by Dariusz Leszczynski:

    Excerpt:

    HELSINKI, Finland, August 6, 2013 – Technological development of wireless communication has brought an unprecedented increase in human, animal and plant exposure to microwave radiation.

    Currently available biomedical research indicates that even at the low levels permitted by the safety standards, radiation exposures induce acute biological effects. The possible impact of the chronic exposures is not known beyond, at the most, the first 10-15 years. We do not have the faintest idea what will happen when exposures will last for a lifetime.

    This lack of biomedical knowledge about the possible impact of the exposures on health of people and on the well being of animals and plants is in striking contrast with the technological progress.

    Because of their usefulness and because of their profitability, wireless technologies are very rapidly expanding and exposures are reach more and more remote Earth locations. In a short time, there will be no place on Earth to “hide” from the omnipresent microwave exposures.

    SNIP

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    • 23 JUL 13

    The Israeli Supreme Court Ordered the Israeli Government to Investigate the Number of Children Currently Suffering From EHS.

    On July 18, 2013, the Israeli Supreme Court ordered the Israeli Government to investigate how many children in Israel already suffer from EHS.

    The Order was issued in response to a Petition to the Israeli Supreme Court to ban Wi-Fi in schools that was submitted in August, 2012. The Government must submit the result of its investigation to the court by November 16, 2013. The Israeli Supreme Court’s decision seems to indicate that the Court does not trust the government’s statements as:

    (1) Not only did the court order the Gov. to check how many children are already sick with EHS, thereby accepting the existence of EHS and its correlation to radiation, but it also demanded that the Gov. specify in its statement the exact measures it took in order to conduct the inquiry.

    (2) Another indication that the Court found the statement of the Gov. unreliable can be found in the fact that the Supreme Court ordered that the Gov.’s reply on November 16, MUST be supported with a sworn affidavit; Meaning that every fact mentioned, data collected or statement made in the Gov.’s answer must be supported by an Affidavit, attesting to the truthfulness of the claim.

    SNIP

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    • 29 MAR 13

    Erja Tamminen: Our Children deserve Safer Technology than Wireless

    This is the second guest blog on BRHP. The opinions expressed in it are of Erja Tamminen herself. Publication of these opinions in BRHP does not mean that BRHP agrees with or endorses these opinions. However, publication of guest blogs is an attempt to start an open debate and free exchange of opinions on RF and health.

    OUR CHILDREN DESERVE SAFER TECHNOLOGY THAN WIRELESS

    There is a technology fever in Finland, even though several international organizations like the World Health Organization, the European Environment Agency, the Council of Europe and the governments of Australia, Belgium, France and Israel emphasize the precautionary principle. In Finland wireless technologies are being favored and the mobile phone industry is influential. Finns areknown to be obedient to authorities and there is a strong reliance on national experts and research done in Finland.

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    • 21 FEB 13

    Powerwatch Comments on the very flawed Rubin study

    Powerwatch Comments on Rubin et al study

    Excerpt from Electrical Hypersensitivity 8 © Alasdair and Jean Philips

    There are a number of problems with this study that will contribute to the “no evidence”
    conclusions.

    SNIP

    Thirdly, and probably the most important problem was due to the design of the MTHR (UK Govt
    Mobile Telecommunications and Health Research) handset that was used in the tests.

    SNIP

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    • 21 FEB 13

    James Rubin’s very dubious provocation studies

    From Amirb at the “No Radiation for You” blog

    Why Dr. James Rubin EHS study is problematic?

    Dr. James Rubin is a psychologist who had done a series of studies on Electromagnetic Hyper Sensitivity (EHS). In his studies he concludes that EHS is a psychological condition. These studies were published as a proof that EHS is not real. Dr. James Rubin was promoted and continues to study EHS. A few days ago I stumbled upon something that might prove his methods completely wrong.
    SNIP

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    • 21 FEB 13

    James Rubin’s scientific Ponzi scheme – and more!

    From Andre Fauteux, Editor
    La Maison du 21e siècle magazine

    For those who missed this great article by Andrew Marino

    Excerpt:

    James Rubin, King’s College London published a blindingly biased paper in which he argued that there was no such thing as electromagnetic hypersensitivity (no robust evidence). His numerous studies on electromagnetic hypersensitivity are all negative, but that negativity was manufactured by employing experimental designs and statistical analysis that were virtually guaranteed to produce negative results. By means of jaundiced analyses he comes to the conclusion that EHS sufferers have a purely psychosomatic disease, a viewpoint that has untold benefits for his clients and funders, particularly the cell-phone companies.

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    • 10 NOV 12

    EHS: Itʼs all in your head but we wonʼt hold it against you

    From John Weigel

    I would like to draw you attention to a new technique being used in Ireland to foster the idea that electromagnetic sensitivity is a psychological disorder. Unlike Sweden which has declared EHS a disability, Ireland has chosen to deny the condition exists. At present there is a concerted effort to remove the stigma attached to mental illness. What is curious is the individuals and companies that are seeking to address the issue. In this instance they are drawn from the business community – and nearly all of the members of the board of the Network for Responsible Business are currently or past employees of the microwave industry.

    It is also important to note that Ireland plans to be an incubation centre for technologies using the Smart Grid which is currently under construction across North America and elsewhere through partnership between government and business.

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    • 31 OCT 12

    Great interviews with Alasdair of Powerwatch and emergency physician Erica Mallery-Blythe

    From Andre Fauteux, editor La Maison du 21e siecle:

    Electrosensitivity Sufferers: Hear how ES affects our lives by Alasdair Philips – Powerwatch Scientist and Erica Mallery-Blythe – Emergency Medicine Doctor.

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    • 25 OCT 12

    The Swedish Government report: “Trotthet & vark” by Robert Olin

    Background to the report:

    The report “Trotthet & vark” was written by Robert Olin, MD and Professor Emeritus of Preventive Medicine on behalf of a Parliamentary Commission appointed by the Swedish government. It was published in October of 1999. I have a copy of the 2002 update which is 121 pages in length. With the current smart meter health crisis I consider that a full English translation is called for. Note that the report critically examines the psychosomatic controversy (the nosebo effect).

    The Olin report was commissioned as a result of ongoing research carried out by several organisations, including the Karolinska Institute, The Swedish National Institute of Occupational Health, the Swedish Union of Clerical and Technical Employees in Industry, Lule College and Institute of Technology, Lund University and the Orebro Medical Centre in Sweden. The report represents the high point of organised Swedish research into both chemical and electromagnetic impacts on health before the whole research effort was squashed by the conservative Swedish government for economic reasons.

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