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

Abstract

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.