What type of injury from microwave exposure is the best understood?

The best understood type of injury from microwave exposure is excessive heating of internal organs. This understanding is based on the mechanism through which microwaves interact with biological tissues. Microwaves primarily heat tissues by agitating water molecules, leading to increased thermal energy and consequently higher temperatures.

Internal organs, which often contain higher concentrations of water, are particularly susceptible to this heating effect. The dangers arise when these organs become excessively heated, potentially leading to burns, damage to cells, and impaired organ function. This understanding is critical in settings where microwave exposure may occur, such as medical procedures or industrial applications.

While skin injuries, liver damage, and squamous cell destruction can occur, the direct and systemic effects of microwave-induced heating of internal organs are clearer and more documented in research regarding microwave exposure injuries. Thus, the focus on internal organ heating represents a more established understanding of the potential health risks associated with microwaves.