Testing It Up

Many of us are becoming more and more conscious of the health hazards that surround us every single day. One of the basic home equipment that has been getting much attention from health experts these days is the microwave oven. Just this month, the US Food and Drug Administration released a Consumer Update about the safe use of microwave ovens.

It is, of course, to the consumers’ best interest to always follow the instructions from the manufacturer as stated in the User’s Manual. Before using the microwave oven, read the guide carefully to avoid incurring injuries or damaging the oven. It is not advisable to operate the oven when it is open or cannot be closed.

The manufacture of microwave ovens is regulated by the FDA and finished products must pass strict standards before they are released in the market. Thus, there really is no need to worry much on radiation exposure from our newly-bought or old yet well-maintained units. It is an entire different story, though, when our microwave oven has been damaged or if its door is bent or warped.

The Risks of Microwave Radiation

Constant exposure to high levels of microwave radiation can result to eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, and even temporary sterility. Since the lens of the eyes is one of the most sensitive parts of the body, exposure to radiation can also cause cataracts.

A study on microwave oven leakage indicates that older units leak more radiation than new ones. So, it probably is best to have old units replaced or regularly checked. We can also use microwave oven leakage detectors to determine the level of leakage.

Some experts argue that the amount of radiation that a defective oven leaks is very minimal that it could not cause any noticeable effect on humans. But knowing how serious the effects of microwave radiation are, would we really want to take the risk? I don’t think so.

Tags: Aging, Drug, health

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