Magnetic Fields and Sickle Cell Anemia

[Elaine Marshall <emarshall@fnal.gov>]

A couple of weeks ago a question was raised regarding the dangers of
magnetic fields to individuals with active sickle cell anemia during a
training session.  I did not happen to be at the actual session, but
reviewed the training materials later.  In the materials it mentioned that
persons with active sickle cell anemia should avoid contact with magnetic
fields, as should individuals with pacemakers and metallic protheses.  No
reason was given for this in the training.  Since then, I have been doing
some research on the Internet into magnetic fields and also sickle cell
anemia without finding any explanation.   I was hoping that someone might be
able to help me understand the reasons for this warning and thresholds if
any.  Would exposure of this type would affect someone with the sickle cell
trait?  Could magnetic fields trigger a crisis or does it only affect a
person in the midst of an attack?

Thanks!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+ Elaine T. Marshall
+ Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
+ Facilities Engineering Services Section
+ Administration/Safety
+ Voice: (630 840-8756/Fax: (630) 840-4980
+ E-Mail: EMarshall@fnal.gov
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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