Heating pads are synonymous with coziness, comfort and, above all, easing of body and mind for full-on relaxation. They seem to be one of the best therapeutic devices designed for everything comforting except for the growing fear of developing cancer in an internal organ. This concern stems from a general misunderstanding about the types of radiation and their effects on human health.
Before we draw any conclusion about whether heating pads can cause cancer, it is essential to understand what kind of radiation is emitted by heating pads. We look at the research done in this regard globally and suggest our readers go through those, too, for a better understanding.
The Potential Link Between Adult Cancer & Exposure to Extremely Low-Frequency fields
Here is the gist of three studies amongst various studies which have been conducted:
- Wertheimer and Leeper (1982): This study did show an association between certain adult cancers and residential wiring configurations. The risk increased with higher current configurations, particularly for those living in such residences for 3-6 years before cancer diagnosis. However, this study did raise concerns about being biased and not accounting for confounding factors.
- Stevens and colleagues (1987): Conducted a case-control study focusing on acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) and residential ELF field exposures. Using data from cancer cases in Washington state and residential field measurements, they found no association between ANLL and residential ELF fields.
- McDowall (1983): There was an examination of mortality rates from leukemia among people living near transmission lines and power substations in East Anglia, England. This study found no increased leukemia mortality compared to national or regional rates.
These studies do not conclusively support a link between residential ELF field exposure and adult cancer.
At this point, it is essential to understand what radiation comes from the heating pad and their effect on the human body.
Electric Radiation from Electric Heating Pads: Electric heating pads use electric current to generate heat through resistance in a wire. This process does not produce ionizing radiation or UV radiation is known to damage DNA and potentially cause cancer. The electric fields generated by household electrical devices, including heating pads, are of extremely low frequency and are not known to be harmful to human health.
Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs): Electricity and electrical appliances are a part of our lives. Now, wherever the electric current flows, there is going to be an electric field. However, electrical devices like heating pads emit very low-level low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs). The World Health Organization (WHO), in October 2005, convened a Task Group of scientific experts who found that the low-frequency EMFs produced by household electricity have, as such, no link to cancer.
No Connection Established Between Heat and Cancer: The only concern with heating pads is the potential for burns or heat damage to the skin, and that too with prolonged contact at high temperatures. No scientific evidence suggests that the heat from a heating pad penetrates deeply enough into the body and may affect internal organs to the extent that it could induce cancerous changes in cells.
Still Concerned? Opt For Non-electric Heating Pads
Suppose there is still some concern in your mind regarding the use of electric heating pads. We say you continue to reap the benefits of heating pads but with non-electric heating pads. The non-electric heating pads from Express Heat Therapy are manufactured with safe and non-toxic material that does not require electricity to provide you with comforting heat.
Please note to date, medical and scientific consensus does not support the idea that heating pads cause internal organ cancer. So go ahead and bask in the heat and comfort of the best and safest heating pads from Express Heat Therapy.
