Safe Technology in School Communities
Physical Health Effects
People, animals, birds, plants and pollinators are all electromagnetic. Every living cell in your body whispers quiet instructions to send and receive chemicals which can impact our body. Artificial electromagnetic radiation from wireless devices is digitally pulsed and can interfere with this quiet whisper that takes place within and between every cell.
Hundreds of scientific studies clearly show the harmful effects of this microwave radiation. Just like smoking, 2nd hand radiation can be harmful to family, friends, pets and bystanders.
We can become aware of the health effects, so we know why it is important to use devices in a safer way to protect ourselves and those around us.
Fluorescent Lights, Adverse Effects
Fluorescent lights, commonly used in schools, offices, and homes, emit light through a process that generates ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Although most of this UV radiation is contained by the bulb's phosphor coating, small amounts can still escape, leading to potential biological effects.
Florescent bulbs also contain Mercury, emit Radiofrequency radiation, and generate dirty electricity.
Prolonged exposure to fluorescent lighting has been associated with adverse health effects, including:
Eye Strain and Discomfort: The subtle humming and flickering of fluorescent lights, even when imperceptible to the naked eye, can significantly impact sensitive individuals, triggering headaches, eye strain, stress and fatigue in sensitive individuals who may have a negative impact on concentration.
Skin Sensitivities: For individuals with certain conditions, such as lupus or photodermatoses, UV emissions from fluorescent lighting can trigger skin irritation or rashes.
Electromagnetic Sensitivity (EHS): Fluorescent lights generate electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and can exacerbate symptoms in individuals sensitive to EMF exposure.
Sleep Disruption: The high blue-light content of fluorescent bulbs can disrupt circadian rhythms by suppressing melatonin production, leading to difficulties with sleep.
Mercury Exposure Risks: Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, a toxic substance that poses a health risk if bulbs break or are improperly disposed of.
Electrohypersensitivity
Electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), known in the past as “Microwave syndrome”, is a clinical condition characterized by a broad spectrum of non-specific multiple organ systems that typically occur after a person's exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) from the environment. These microwave-induced symptoms are listed in the illustration: "Are your symptoms caused by your wireless device?"
If someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, encourage them to document both the triggers and the symptoms in detail. They can share their anecdotal notes with their doctor and request a referral to the Environmental Health Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. Early intervention is crucial for maintaining and improving health.
The Electrosensitive Society: is dedicated to supporting individuals who experience adverse health effects from electromagnetic fields (EMFs), including wireless radiation. This organization provides reliable, science-based information about electrosensitivity (EHS), helping individuals understand their condition and its potential triggers. The organization offers practical guidance on reducing EMF exposure and implementing safe technology practices in daily life.
Additionally, ESS fosters a sense of community through its support group, where members can share their experiences, challenges, and solutions in a compassionate and understanding environment. By connecting individuals facing similar struggles, ESS empowers those affected by EHS to navigate their journey toward improved health and well-being.
Mental Health
Effects
Positive aspects to gaming in a structured, wired (no wireless, microwave) environment:
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Cognitive ability: Playing games can improve memory and cognitive ability.
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Problem solving: Games can help players develop problem-solving skills by challenging them to solve complex problems.
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Creativity: Games can encourage creativity, especially narrative-driven games.
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Social skills: Some games can help players develop social skills by providing a safe space for discussion and conversation.
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Teamwork: Multiplayer games can encourage players to work together to achieve a common goal.
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Physical activity: Some games, like Dance Revolution and Wii Fit, are a form of physical activity.
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Therapy and rehabilitation: Video games can be useful tools for therapy and rehabilitation.
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Social support: Games can provide social support and help reduce social isolation.
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Education: Games can be used for education and social interaction. For example, teachers have reported that students become better collaborators after using some digital games in the classroom.
Negative aspects to gaming and wireless (microwave) emissions:
Addiction: Video games are designed to increase a feel good chemical in our body called dopamine. Gaming increases dopamine, but our brain gets used to this level, and wants more. This creates addiction because your child or teen needs more gaming just to get the same good feeling.
If your children are gaming more than one hour on week nights, they may have an addiction. Set limits for device time. Professional counselling can prevent depression, related to gaming.
https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/paediatrics/about_us/people/faculty/Ponti_Michelle.html
Elevated (spiked) Sugar Levels: Epidemiologists recognize that digitally pulsed, wireless RF signals in the microwave frequency range can spike glucose in the brain which can lead to ADHD behaviours.
Adverse impacts on Hormones: Digital pulsed microwave signals from wireless devices are known to adversely impact hormones. Radiofrequency (RF) radiation can potentially affect hormonal systems in the body through various mechanisms, although research in this area is ongoing and complex. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate critical bodily functions, and any disruption in their balance can have wide-ranging effects on health.
Here’s how RF radiation may adversely impact hormones:
1. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
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RF radiation has been shown in some studies to increase oxidative stress, which is the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Oxidative stress can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to altered hormone production.
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Chronic inflammation caused by RF exposure may interfere with the normal functioning of hormone-producing glands.
2. Disruption of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
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The hypothalamic-pituitary axis is a critical hormonal regulatory system. RF radiation could influence its functioning, altering the secretion of key hormones such as cortisol (stress hormone), growth hormone, and reproductive hormones.
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Studies suggest that RF exposure may interfere with the signaling between the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, affecting overall hormonal balance.
3. Effects on Reproductive Hormones
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RF radiation has been linked to changes in the levels of reproductive hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. This disruption may lead to issues like reduced fertility, menstrual irregularities, and other reproductive health problems.
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Male fertility studies have noted potential reductions in testosterone levels and sperm quality with prolonged RF exposure.
4. Melatonin Suppression
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Melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, may be suppressed by RF radiation. Disruptions in melatonin can lead to sleep disturbances and immune system dysfunction.
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Lower melatonin levels have also been associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases, including cancer.
5. Thyroid Hormone Disruption
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The thyroid gland is highly sensitive to environmental factors. RF radiation may influence the production of thyroid hormones, such as T3 and T4, potentially leading to conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
6. Stress Hormones
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RF radiation exposure has been linked to elevated cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone. Chronic elevations in cortisol can lead to a variety of health issues, including weakened immunity, weight gain, and cardiovascular problems.
7. Insulin Resistance
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Preliminary research suggests that RF radiation might influence glucose metabolism and insulin regulation, potentially increasing the risk of metabolic disorders like diabetes.
8. Endocrine-Disrupting Mechanisms
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RF radiation may act as an endocrine disruptor by altering the way hormone receptors respond or by interfering with cellular signaling pathways critical for hormonal regulation.
What the Research Says:
While independent peer-reviewed studies (not tied to the industry) indicate these potential effects, corporate funded studies appear to have.The degree of hormonal disruption likely depends on factors such as the frequency and intensity of RF radiation, duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility.