Investigation of a possible link between exposure to magnetic fields and the rate of miscarriage

What is the issue?

There are some indications of an increased rate of miscarriage due to occupational and residential exposure to magnetic fields (e.g. from using electric blankets). This research programme is intended to investigate whether this link actually exists.

What is the current situation?

The indications of a link between exposure to magnetic fields and the risk of miscarriage are classified as very weak. However, given that such a link would have far-reaching overall significance (because of the large number of people exposed to magnetic fields), the aim is to improve the availability of relevant data. With this in mind, the issue has been incorporated into the WHO's research agenda, albeit not with a high level of priority.

What are the objectives of the BfS research project?

The plan is for an epidemiological project (an observational study on humans) to evaluate the risk of miscarriage in an existing cohort (a group of people who are observed over a longer period of time). As part of this project, the available data on residential and occupational exposure to magnetic fields will be incorporated into the evaluation.