Dirty Electricity by Samuel Milham Summary

Dirty Electricity exposes the health risks of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, linking "dirty electricity" (high-frequency voltage transients) to modern diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Epidemiologist Samuel Milham combines decades of research with case studies, arguing that electrification—not just lifestyle factors—drives chronic illnesses. The book critiques regulatory inaction and offers strategies to reduce EMF exposure in daily life.

This book is essential for public health professionals, environmental scientists, and individuals concerned about EMF exposure risks. It’s also valuable for patients with unexplained chronic illnesses, educators, and policymakers seeking to understand the societal impacts of electrification. Readers interested in preventative health or unconventional perspectives on modern diseases will find it eye-opening.

Yes—it’s a groundbreaking but controversial work. While some critics note a reliance on anecdotal evidence and Milham’s autobiographical details, the book provides a compelling case for reexamining EMF’s role in public health. Its warnings about cell towers, household wiring, and regulatory failures make it a provocative read for those open to alternative health theories.

Milham argues that:

• Dirty electricity contaminates modern power grids, emitting harmful EMFs.
• Chronic exposure correlates with “diseases of civilization” like leukemia, diabetes, and depression.
• Regulatory agencies neglect risks due to economic incentives.
• Simple interventions (e.g., filters, wiring fixes) can mitigate exposure.

He defines it as high-frequency voltage transients—erratic energy surges traveling along electrical wiring. Unlike standard 60Hz AC power, these frequencies (kHz to MHz) disrupt biological systems, potentially damaging cells and increasing oxidative stress. Common sources include dimmer switches, LED lights, and solar inverters.

Milham cites:

• Occupational studies: Higher leukemia rates in workers exposed to EMFs.
• Historical data: Disease spikes post-electrification in rural communities.
• School case studies: Symptom clusters near cell towers or faulty wiring.
  He contrasts these with lower disease rates in pre-electrification societies.

Milham recommends:

• Installing EMF filters to clean dirty electricity.
• Avoiding wireless devices and smart meters.
• Using wired internet and analog appliances.
• Advocating for stricter EMF regulations.

Skeptics argue Milham overstates correlations, lacks large-scale clinical trials, and relies heavily on personal anecdotes. Some readers find the technical explanations challenging, while others critique the autobiographical focus in early chapters.

As a veteran epidemiologist and public health advocate, Milham draws on 50+ years of research, including pivotal studies on occupational EMF exposure. His work at the Washington State Department of Health and academic roles lend credibility to his warnings about electrification’s unintended consequences.

Unlike generic EMF guides, Milham’s book uniquely ties dirty electricity to historical disease patterns and institutional negligence. It complements Devra Davis’ Disconnect but stands out for its focus on power grid-specific risks and actionable mitigation strategies.

With 5G expansion, smart home tech, and renewable energy systems increasing EMF exposure, Milham’s warnings about unregulated electrification remain urgent. The book provides a framework for evaluating emerging technologies’ health impacts.

• EMF exposure timelines: Correlates disease surges with electrification milestones.
• Dirty electricity filters: A DIY solution to reduce home EMF levels.
• School-based case studies: Links student/teacher health declines to nearby cell towers.

Milham condemns regulatory capture, alleging that agencies prioritize industry interests over public health. He urges grassroots advocacy, transparency in EMF research, and updated safety standards reflecting biological—not just thermal—effects of radiation.