Authored By:

Porsius JT et al
Summary:

This is a cross-sectional study that investigated whether nocebo responses are responsible for the increases in health complaints surrounding the construction of high voltage power lines (HVPL). Questionnaires were distributed to residents in close proximity of HVPL (up to 500 metres away) and to residents living further away (500-2000 metres away). A total of 1254 responses were received in 4 stages: when the construction was carried out, construction completed but not yet operational, 2 months after operation, and 7 months after operation. The authors found that putting HVPL into operation can lead to subjective symptoms through stronger negative beliefs about the health risks, which is explainable by nocebo effects.

Link to:

Link to PubMed abstract

Published In:

Sci Total Environ 2015; 543 (Pt A): 432 - 438

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