Myth: Microwave ovens cause cancer
Cancer is simply a disease in which cells of a tissue undergo uncontrolled growths.
According to WHO, one defining feature of cancer is the rapid creation of abnormal cells that grow beyond their boundaries, and which can spread to other organs nearby.
You'd wonder how microwaves come into the picture right?.
Well the abnormal cell growths are the result of the interaction between a person's genetic factors and a couple of external agents, including: chemical carcinogens(e.g asbestos), biological carcinogens(e.g bacterial infection) and physical carcinogens(e.g radiation)
If Microwave Ovens could cause cancer, they should fall under physical carcinogens. The reason for this being that microwave ovens function by producing a form of radiation called "microwaves".
But then, of the different types of radiation energy known only those classified as "ionizing radiation" can cause cancer. However, microwaves fall under "non-ionizing radiation". The only known non-ionizing radiation known to cause cancer is the ultraviolet radiation, such as is from the sun.
Infact, the chances that you would be exposed to radiation from a microwave oven are slim. U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules say that only a certain amount of radiation can leak from the microwave at about 2 inches away or farther. Which is a level of radiation that is not dangerous to people
Moreso, all ovens are also built with a standard interlock system that allows the microwave oven to work only when the door is closed. So the microwave radiation stays inside the microwave as long as the doors are closed.
Furthermore, though the microwaves are used directly for heating and are absorbed by the food, the risk of food contamination are also non-existent.
Microwave radiation can’t alter the chemical makeup of your food either.
Infact, WHO compares microwave ovens to how lightbulbs work. According to them just as when the lightbulb is turned off, no light remains so also when the microwave is turned off, no radiation remains.
However, while microwave oven radiation doesn’t cause cancer, high levels of exposure to microwave radiation can cause painful burns. This is because microwave radiation can heat body tissue the same way it heats your food. Just like the excessive exposure to the sun can burn the skin.
High levels of exposure are only probable when the microwave is broken or altered.
Experts recommend to inspect your microwave for faults, even though microwaves can stay without faults for close to 10years with good maintenance.
They also don’t recommend standing directly in front of or up against your microwave oven while it’s turned on.
Burns from spilling hot food and liquids are common when using a microwave.
Thanks for reading.
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