Effect of Occupational Exposure to Low-frequency Electromagnetic Fields on Cataract Development.

PURPOSE: Cataracts are the second leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. This study aimed to examine the impact of occupational exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields on cataract development.

METHODS

One hundred employees of Zahedan Electricity Company participated in this study. They were assigned to four groups based on their level of exposure: regular, operational, operator personnel, and non-exposure. Based on LOCS III grading, the risk of developing different types of cataracts (i.e., nuclear, posterior subcapsular, and cortical) was evaluated for all participants.

RESULTS

The frequency of cataracts was 62.2% in the exposure group (which includes three subgroups: the regular, operational, and operator personnel) and 53.8% in the non-exposure group. There was a significant difference between the study groups in terms of nuclear opacity grading (P = 0.003). The correlation between nuclear and posterior subcapsular cataract grading and work experience duration in the exposure group was statistically significant (P < 0.018).

CONCLUSION

This study's findings indicate that exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields such as power lines, power plants, and power distribution posts may be a risk factor for cataract development, particularly nuclear cataracts.