Everyone knows that hybrid cars are better for the environment than the typical gas powered car. But, according to some skeptics, these green cars may be harmful to their drivers’ health.
The concern comes from the magnetic fields produced when a hybrid car moves at slow speeds. Currently, electrical currents that move a hybrid vehicle at low speeds and assist the engine at higher speeds produce magnetic fields, which some studies have shown to be potentially hazardous to your health.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Cancer Institute both acknowledge the risk of prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Their studies have shown that living near high-voltage utility lines is associated with an increased risk for cancer.
We are exposed to EMFs on a daily basis from cell phones to hair dryers. However, some say the concern comes from the amount of exposure to EMFs since we use our cars everyday for a prolonged period of time.
Some car owners have complained that their hybrids have caused them to become ill or increased their blood pressure. After testing their cars, these owners found that the EMF levels from their cars exceeded the international standards for safety.
Car manufacturers, on the other hand, insist their cars are safe and do not pose an additional health risk to their owners.
So, what’s the verdict? At this time, results about the dangers of hybrid vehicles to your health are still inconclusive. But keep an eye out for future articles about the potential health hazards of hybrid vehicles as more research is needed.
Comments on this entry are closed.