Health effects from long-term MRI-related exposure during MRI development and production

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) employs non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF), including static magnetic fields (SMF), and is used for medical diagnostics and scientific research. MRI-scanners are also a source of high acoustic noise levels. The number of MRI scanners continues to increase, leading to increased number of workers working with or near those scanners (MRI-technicians, other medical staff an even cleaners). Acute exposure to MRI-related EMF is known to cause transient effects, such as vertigo and headaches, but the effects of long-term exposure are unclear. Long-term exposure to high levels of occupational noise is known to cause hearing damage. Because of the increase of occupational MRI-related exposure and the uncertainty regarding potential effects of long-term exposure to EMF, a cohort study among was carried out to investigate whether or not recent and long-term exposure may lead to health effects. The health and exposure levels of employees of a medical imaging device manufacturing facility (some worked with MRI) were investigated. An association was found between exposure to EMF and an increased risk of developing hypertension, an increased risk of accidents (among which during commute), increased fatigue, and reduced sleep adequacy. Additionally, results suggest potential hearing damage caused by acoustic noise. More research is warranted to replicate the effects found for the first time in this study. The results of this study stress the necessity of compliance with existing safety guidelines, health surveillance, and exposure measures to reduce and/or limit occupational exposure, but without obstructing treatment of patients and medical and scientific advancement.