Combined Action of Microwave Fields and Environmental Pollution

10 Combined Action of Microwave Fields and Environmental Pollution 

As discussed in Chapter 16, the question of whether or not athermal levels of microwave fields are toxic is a controversial one. One study, however, found that such microwaves act synergistically with chemical cancer promoters and lead to autonomous cell growth. 711 This effect has been demonstrated in vitro using the combination of cancer promoting phorbol esters co-applied with nonionizing electromagnetic fields. The author of the study hypothesizes that the mechanism of the combined radiation/ chemical effect involves the disruption of normal intercellular communication through gap junctions. 

It is most probable that the causative agent for prostate cancer in leather tannery workers is a mixture of unknown composition. Working in the leather tanning industry is more commonly associated with increased prevalence of testicular cancer clusters. 7375 This is discussed in Chapter 34. 

Many pesticides are classified by IARC as having sufficient or limited evidence for carcinogenicity. 9 These include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and other compounds. Table 32.3 contains a partial list of 

Farmers and others occupationally exposed to pesticides have been found to be at greater risk for the following cancers  

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