"Don't stand in front of the microwave!" - Common myth?

Question

I've heard some people say not to stand in front of the microwave...something about the radiation (?) contributing to causes for cancer. Those people actually never use the microwave at all as an attempt to avoid cancer.

But, our bodies are exposed to radiation from cellphones, computers anyway, so what's the real deal with microwaves and our bodies?

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Nice question!

Anyway, I think youre safe to use a microwave, its not like it will definitely give you cancer.  

Answer 2

yeah my mom always told me that but my physics teacher says it's a myth, stand in front of it as long as u like

Answer 3

Microwave ovens can develop leaks around the door, so it's prudent not to stand close, or put your head next to the glass to observe. There are even radiation meters you can buy to check your oven's door seal.

Unfocused radiation dissipates by distance squared, so by moving away just a bit, you're really reducing the level of any potential exposure.

Yes, people are concerned about cellphone radiation. Better safe than sorry I say.

Answer 4

I heard that too. No idea as to why.

Whenever I'm standing in front of the microwave, minding my own business, waiting for my food, counting down the seconds..

My dad always yells at me! Get away from the microwave.

WHY DAD?

Stop asking questions. Move!

..

Answer 5

It wouldnt be safe if you ripped the door off.

There was this wog shop up the road and the stupid owner took the door off because he was always using it.

He died from exposure to radiation.

Answer 6

I think you are OK. Try setting some food outside the microwave, like some water. Turn it on and see if anything happens to the water. I think they are being silly!

Answer 7

Just a myth, been disproved many times.  Notice the dark metal screen in the glass door.  That blocks the microwaves.  And they are radio waves that could only heat you up, similar to light waves from a light bulb.  Nuclear radiation can cause cancer - you don't find nuclear materials in home appliances.  It's just a weakness of our language that we use "radiation" to apply to everyday electromagnetic radiation (light bulbs, magnets, radios, cellphones) as well as to nuclear radiation (Uranium,nuclear waste).

Answer 8

Back in the 1970's, it is a documented fact that a man sued and won General Electric for radiation leaks in a microwave oven, which resulted in sterility. However, modern shielding takes full advantage of the Faraday Effect, which prevents harmful radiation from getting out.

However, microwaves do still emit electromagnetic fields, which can cause all kinds of minor and temporary problems, such as paranoia, hallucinations, nausea, feelings of uneasiness, and even skin irritation. However, these effects are generally temporary and harmless, and typically don't require anything in the way of medical treatment.

There are no cases where a microwave oven has been proved to be linked to cancer, except in cases of damage.