Safe Distance for Leukemia Risk Due to Magnetic Fields Caused by High-Voltage Power Lines Using Linear Regression Model

Abstract Aim: Power transmission lines are considered sources with extremely low-frequency magnetic fields. According to previous studies, these types of electromagnetic fields impose adverse effects on the human health. The present study aimed to assess the health risk associated with magnetic fields generated by high-voltage power lines in Khorramabad urban areas in 2019. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, the magnetic flux density was measured around high-voltage 63 kV power lines using EMF-TESTER-828 device according to the IEEE Std 644-1994 Standard at 0-, 13-, 26-, and 40-m distances from the high-voltage transmission lines. Measurements were performed in the spring and summer from 11:30 to 15:00, when the consumption was at its maximum. The mean magnetic flux density in the spring and summer seasons was measured to be 0.143 ± 0.114 μT and 0.284 ± 0.218 μT, respectively. Results: The mean proportional magnetic flux density to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection 2010 (ICNIRP 2010) standard in the spring and summer was measured to be 0.07% and 0.14%, respectively. The results obtained on the relationship between magnetic flux density and distance fitted the linear regression in the form of equation y = 0.3741–0.0077x. Compared to the risk threshold of leukemia (0.2 μT), the mean magnetic flux density in distance <22 m and distance >22 m away from the high-voltage power lines was >0.2 μT and <0.2 μT, respectively. Conclusion: Overall, the mean magnetic flux density in this study was found to be lower than the standard level (ICNIRP 2010) enacted for public exposure. The mean magnetic flux density was reduced by increasing the distance and decreasing the lines’ passing current intensity. Based on this study, there is a health risk for children (risk of leukemia) in distance <22 m, however, no such health risk threatens the children in distance >22 m.