--
Trends in Malignant and Benign Brain Tumor Incidence and
Mobile Phone Use in the U.S. (2000–2021): A SEER-Based Study
My
note: The age-standardized incidence rate for benign (i.e.,
non-malignant) brain and other nervous system tumors iwas 9.56 per
100,000 in 2004 and 18.48 in 2021,
a 93% increase.
Yet the authors of this paper misleadingly claimed contrary to their
own result (APC = 1.9, p = .00003): "The incidence rates for benign
tumors (primarily meningiomas) were also stable, but did increase
slightly over this period [
44].
This is unlikely to be due to mobile phone use." The authors'
assumption that this substantial increase in non-malignant brain tumors was caused simply by changes in screening
practices and tumor classification criteria should be challenged.
Analysis of the SEER data also indicates that the
trend for glioblastoma (GBM) varied by age group. Although it
was quite stable for younger age groups, the GBM age-standardized
incidence rate for seniors 65 years of age and older was 11.97 per 100,000 in 2001
and
13.66 in 2021, a
14% increase.
Since 1,000 hours of mobile phone use may be necessary to initiate a
brain tumor and 20-30 years for a tumor to be diagnosed, continued
surveillance is essential.
Zhang L,
Muscat JE.
Trends in Malignant and Benign Brain Tumor Incidence and
Mobile Phone Use in the U.S. (2000–2021): A SEER-Based Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2025; 22(6):933.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph22060933.
Abstract
(1) Background: There has been an
ongoing concern for several decades that radiofrequencies emitted from
mobile phones are related to brain cancer risk. We calculated temporal
trends in brain cancer incidence rates in adults and children and
compared them to mobile phone subscription data over the same time
period.
(2) Methods: We analyzed the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End
Results (SEER 22) cancer database between 2000 and 2021.
Age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) per 100,000 people were
calculated and the annual percentage change (APC) for malignant and
benign brain cancer and vestibular schwannomas (acoustic neuromas of the
8th cranial nerve) was established. The total number of mobile phone
subscriptions in the United States was plotted for the period 1985–2024.
(3) Results: The APC for adolescents and adults was −0.6 (p = 0.0004) for malignant tumors, −0.06 (p = 0.551) for temporal lobe tumors, and 1.9 (p = 0.00003) for benign tumors. The APC for benign acoustic neuroma was 0.09 (p
= 0.8237), suggesting that mobile phone use is unlikely to be
associated with this tumor type. There was a 1200-fold increase in the
number of cell phone subscriptions during this period.
(4) Conclusions:
These findings suggest that mobile phone use does not appear to be
associated with an increased risk of brain cancer, either malignant or
benign.
--
5G Radio-Frequency-Electromagnetic-Field Effects on the Human Sleep
Electroencephalogram: A Randomized Controlled Study in CACNA1C Genotyped
Volunteers
Sousouri G, Eicher C, D’ MariaAngelo R, Billecocq M, Fussinger T, Studler M, Capstick M, Kuster N, Achermann P, Huber R, Landolt H-P. 5G Radio-Frequency-Electromagnetic-Field Effects on the Human Sleep Electroencephalogram: A Randomized Controlled Study in CACNA1C Genotyped Volunteers. NeuroImage, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121340.
Abstract
Background The introduction of 5G technology as the latest standard in mobile telecommunications has raised concerns about its potential health effects. Prior studies of earlier generations of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) demonstrated narrowband spectral increases in the electroencephalographic (EEG) spindle frequency range (11-16 Hz) in non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep. However, the impact of 5G RF-EMF on sleep remains unexplored. Additionally, RF-EMF can activate L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (LTCC), which have been linked to sleep quality and EEG oscillatory activity.
Objective This study investigates whether the allelic variant rs7304986 in the CACNA1C gene, encoding the α1C subunit of LTCC, modulates 5G RF-EMF effects on EEG spindle activity during NREM sleep.
Methods Thirty-four participants, genotyped for rs7304986 (15 T/C and 19 matched T/T carriers), underwent a double-blind, sham-controlled study with standardized left-hemisphere exposure to two 5G RF-EMF signals (3.6 GHz and 700 MHz) for 30 min before sleep. Sleep spindle activity was analyzed using high-density EEG and the Fitting Oscillations & One Over f (FOOOF) algorithm.
Results T/C carriers reported longer sleep latency compared to T/T carriers. A significant interaction between RF-EMF exposure and rs7304986 genotype was observed, with 3.6 GHz exposure in T/C carriers inducing a faster spindle center frequency in the central, parietal, and occipital cortex compared to sham.
Conclusion These findings suggest 3.6 GHz 5G RF-EMF modulates spindle center frequency during NREM sleep in a CACNA1C genotype-dependent manner, implicating LTCC in the physiological response to RF-EMF and underscoring the need for further research into 5G effects on brain health.
--
Exposure to radiofrequency
electromagnetic fields and IARC carcinogen assessment: Risk of Bias
preliminary literature assessment for 10 key characteristics of human
carcinogens
Simkó M, Repacholi MH, Foster KR, Mattsson
MO, Croft RJ, Scarfi MR, Vijayalaxmi. Exposure to radiofrequency
electromagnetic fields and IARC carcinogen assessment: Risk of Bias
preliminary literature assessment for 10 key characteristics of human
carcinogens. Mutat Res Rev Mutat Res. 2025 May 27;796:108545. doi:
10.1016/j.mrrev.2025.108545
Highlights
• We analyzed if the ten key characteristics (KCs) of human carcinogens according to IARC are influenced by RF-EMF exposure.
• We reviewed 159 articles by extracting relevant exposure and experimental data.
• A risk of bias (RoB) analysis was conducted using 6 criteria.
•There is a strong negative association between study quality and the likelihood of reporting effects of RF-EMF exposures.
• The heterogeneity and overall poor study quality suggest the need for high-quality studies.
Abstract
This is the first assessment of evidence needed to determine whether
exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposures,
below the levels recommended in the ICNIRP (2020) guidelines, can
influence any of the ten key characteristics (KCs) of human carcinogens
developed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). We
define the 10 KCs and their relevance to carcinogenesis; review in vivo
and in vitro studies relevant to the KCs; and conduct a risk of bias
(RoB) analysis using 6 criteria. We did not include KC studies on
genotoxicity or oxidative stress since Romeo et al. (2024) and Meyer et
al. (2024) recently published relevant systematic reviews, but note
their respective conclusions. From the other 8 KCs we identified 119 in
vitro and 40 in vitro measurements of in vivo studies through 30 June
2023, with 38 % reporting statistically significant effects of exposure.
We identified a strong association between the quality of study and
outcome, with those meeting more RoB criteria less likely to report
statistically significant effects. Effects were reported over the entire
frequency range, exposure levels, and biological endpoints with no
apparent pattern of exposure parameters resulting in effects. Only KC10
(alters cell proliferation, cell death or nutrient supply) has
sufficient studies to analyse, but the other KCs had few studies and
diverse endpoints. A few relatively high-quality positive studies
require follow-up through additional targeted studies. The heterogeneity
and overall poor study quality suggest the need for high-quality
studies on these endpoints, preferably adhering to standards such as the
Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development [28].
Limitation of the review
A
significant limitation of the present review is that it was not a
PRISMA-compliant systematic review or scoping review. However, the
present review did not fully adhere to the standard guidelines for a
scoping review, although our approach bore some similarities to the
approach adopted in Peters et al.
[31].
It is not feasible to adjust the present review (eight reviews in
total) to conform to such guidelines. This limitation is acknowledged,
and the necessity for comprehensive scoping reviews and, where
applicable, SRs, is emphasized.
Conclusions
This
review aimed to assess the extent and adequacy of experimental data
bearing on whether exposure to RF-EMF could influence any of the 10 IARC
key characteristics of human carcinogenesis. Since two PRISMA-compliant
SRs on the KCs genotoxicity and oxidative stress were recently
published
[35],
[23],
this present review was limited to the 8 remaining KCs for which no
systematic reviews have been conducted so far. It became apparent that
the present database of in vitro and in vivo studies was so diverse and
scattered in their quality that helpful outcomes of SRs on most of the
KCs would be unfeasible, and any conclusions from such reviews would
have a very low confidence. The two PRISMA-compliant SRs as well as
previous comprehensive reviews on in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity
studies (e.g.
[46],
and our review of studies on the 8 KCs, have all reached the same
conclusion: there is clearly a need for much higher quality RF-EMF
bioeffects studies on these KCs.
There are, however, a few statistically significant results in the highest quality studies (Tier 1 studies in Romeo et al.
[35]
and studies meeting 5 or 6 RoB criteria (present study). These deserve
close examination, and replication if warranted by stronger studies,
preferably done under GLP
[28], or are otherwise compliant with OHAT recommendations.
As
a final comment, it is not useful for systematic reviews to examine
hundreds of papers on a given topic, only to find that the overall
quality of the large majority of the studies is too low to permit
conclusions with a high level of confidence.
--
Does
Electromagnetic Pollution in the ART Laboratory Affect Sperm Quality? A
Cross-Sectional Observational Study.
Baldini GM, Lot D, Ferri D, Montano L,
Tartagni MV, Malvasi A, Laganà AS, Palumbo M, Baldini D, Trojano G. Does
Electromagnetic Pollution in the ART Laboratory Affect Sperm Quality? A
Cross-Sectional Observational Study. Toxics. 2025 Jun 18;13(6):510.
doi: 10.3390/toxics13060510.
Abstract
In recent decades, exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs)
generated by standard devices has raised concerns about possible effects
on reproductive health. This cross-sectional observational study
examined the impact of EMFs on sperm motility in a sample of 102 healthy
males aged 20-35 years in the IVF laboratory. Semen samples were
exposed to different sources of EMF for one hour, and motility was
assessed immediately thereafter. The results showed a significant
reduction in progressive sperm motility after exposure to EMFs generated
by mobile phones and Wi-Fi repeaters in the laboratory. In contrast,
other equipment showed no significant effects. The study demonstrated a
statistically significant reduction in progressive sperm motility
following in vitro exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by
mobile communication devices and wireless local area network access
points. Conversely, other electromagnetic emitting devices evaluated did
not elicit significant alterations in this parameter. These findings
suggest a potential negative impact of specific EMF sources on semen
quality, underscoring the necessity for further comprehensive research
to elucidate the clinical implications and to develop potential
mitigation strategies aimed at reducing risks to male reproductive
health. This study discourages the introduction of mobile phones in IVF
laboratories and recommends positioning Wi-Fi repeaters on the ceiling.
Excerpt
- Group 3—iPhone Cell Phone. The samples were
exposed to radiation emitted by an Apple iPhone 12 mobile phone (output
power: 0.1 W) (Apple Computer, Cupertino, CA, USA). The device was kept
at a distance of 10 cm from the semen sample for 1 h.
- Group
4—Ubiquiti Wi-Fi Repeater. The samples were exposed to EMFs emitted by a
Ubiquiti UniFi 6 long-range Wi-Fi repeater (Ubiquiti, 685 Third Avenue,
New York, NY, USA), utilising 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi technology with
an emission power of approximately 20 dBm (decibel milliwatts), which
corresponds to approximately 100 mW (milliwatts). As in all other cases,
the sample was placed at a distance of 10 cm for 1 h.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/13/6/510
--
A
novel approach for assessments of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields
exposure in buildings near telecommunication infrastructure
de F H Silva RQ, Rodrigues MEC, Pinheiro FSR,
da Silva GS, da C Muniz M, Pinto LS, Mendonça HB, de Sousa VA Jr. A
novel approach for assessments of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields
exposure in buildings near telecommunication infrastructure. Sci Total
Environ. 2025 Jun 25;992:179853. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179853.
Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40570395.
Highlights
•
Determines the worst-case exposure in buildings directly exposed to RF-EMF.
•
Enables large-scale assessments by limiting specific measurement locations.
•
Evaluates all buildings in a city using the proposed approach.
•
Novel RF-EMF exposure results in vertical dwellings.
•
Unprecedented discussions on recommendations for exposure to RF-EMF in buildings.
Abstract
This paper proposes to complement the current regulatory agencies'
methodology for evaluating exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic
Fields (RF-EMF) in buildings under the direct incidence of emissions
from Base Station (BS) antennas. The key contribution is the refinement
of measurement point selection within buildings, ensuring that
assessments more accurately capture exposure levels. The approach
employs technical criteria for selecting target buildings, considering
the location of the BSs and the configuration of the surrounding antenna
structures. The proposed approach was applied to measurements in four
buildings in the city of Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte,
located in the Northeast region of Brazil. The results show electric
field intensity peaks up to 17.40 times higher and averages up to 14.13
times higher than values obtained from measurements conducted at ground
level, such as those carried out by the National Telecommunications
Agency (ANATEL). The highest exposure rates reached 82.27% and 59.43% of
the limits established by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing
Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) for the frequency bands of FM radio and
mobile telephony, respectively. Our proposal can improve and complement
the normative guidelines for RF-EMF exposure assessment, providing more
representative evaluations of exposure in indoor building environments
near modern telecommunication infrastructure.
This paper proposes to complement the current regulatory agencies'
methodology for evaluating exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic
Fields (RF-EMF) in buildings under the direct incidence of emissions
from Base Station (BS) antennas. The key contribution is the refinement
of measurement point selection within buildings, ensuring that
assessments more accurately capture exposure levels. The approach
employs technical criteria for selecting target buildings, considering
the location of the BSs and the configuration of the surrounding antenna
structures. The proposed approach was applied to measurements in four
buildings in the city of Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte,
located in the Northeast region of Brazil. The results show electric
field intensity peaks up to 17.40 times higher and averages up to 14.13
times higher than values obtained from measurements conducted at ground
level, such as those carried out by the National Telecommunications
Agency (ANATEL). The highest exposure rates reached 82.27% and 59.43% of
the limits established by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing
Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) for the frequency bands of FM radio and
mobile telephony, respectively. Our proposal can improve and complement
the normative guidelines for RF-EMF exposure assessment, providing more
representative evaluations of exposure in indoor building environments
near modern telecommunication infrastructure.
8. Conclusions
This
study presented a novel approach for assessing RF-EMF exposure in
buildings directly exposed to emissions from BS antennas, in addition to
criteria for selecting target buildings and determining the precise
location of the potential worst-case exposure scenario within these
structures. The measurement methodology conformed to internationally
recognized standards (
ICNIRP, 2020) and Brazilian guidelines for evaluating exposure to electromagnetic fields from radiofrequency services (
ANATEL, 2023).
Applying
the proposed approach for selecting target buildings resulted in
obtaining an electrical field intensity peak value higher than those of
studies found in the literature that carried out indoor measurements, in
addition to presenting values close to those recorded by works that
carried out outdoor measurements. These data were acquired from measures
over 30 min, as recommended by ICNIRP (2020).
This provides a time optimization in exposure assessment compared to
approaches that select measurement locations randomly and/or perform
measurements over 24 h. Furthermore, this approach provides a more
accurate evaluation than methods that use measurements with 6 min or
less.
The measurements conducted at the target floor yield average and peak electric field intensity values lower than
ICNIRP (2020)
exposure limits but up to 17.40 times higher than those obtained at the
ground level. These findings indicate the necessity for specific
investigations for the discussed exposure scenario and the importance of
improving regulatory agencies’ methods to consider the complexities and
particularities of modern RF-EMF exposure contexts.
In
addition, the proposed approach can be improved using geographic and
structural datasets on buildings of the analyzed region, enabling the
automation of the selection process of BSs and target buildings, as
described in Sections 4.1 Target BSs selection, 4.2 Target buildings selection,
respectively. Using methods for measuring in the external part of the
façade of target buildings, such as drones, can reduce the number of
authorizations required to carry out measurements, making more
measurements feasible.
Finally,
future work aims to conduct measurements in all 22 buildings in Natal
and establish partnerships with other institutions to apply the
methodology in different cities and countries, promoting a more
comprehensive analysis of the exposure scenario in apartments and
analyzing reproducibility.
--
Effect of elevation on cumulative radiofrequency exposure from multiple communication towers
Osei S, Quarshie E, Azah CK, Fuseini A-R, Dogbey R, Deatanyah P, Hagan GB, Hodasi JAM, Sam F, Amoako JK. Effect of elevation on cumulative radiofrequency exposure from multiple
communication towers, Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 2025. doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncaf068.
Abstract
A densely populated place like a public university needs good internet
and communication connectivity for effective academic work. As such,
University campuses in Ghana are inundated with communication antennas.
This study investigated how radiofrequency (RF) power density levels are
affected by the elevations of different floors of high-rise buildings
of a public university. A spectrum analyser coupled to a log-periodic
antenna was used. The RF power density decreased from the ground floor
to the third floor and only increased to maximum levels on the fourth
floor. The variation across different floors indicates the influence of
elevation on the measured EMF levels. The 900 MHz band produced the
highest power density of 1.16E-03 W/m2 on the last (fourth)
floor, suggesting that communication applications in the 900 MHz band
are the most used by the university community.
--
Evaluation of Personal Radiation Exposure from Wireless Signals in Indoor and Outdoor Environments
Ruijie P, Sali A, Li L, Mohyedin MZ. Qahtan S. Evaluation of Personal Radiation Exposure from Wireless Signals in Indoor and Outdoor Environments. IEEE Access, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3579085.
Abstract
With the development of wireless technology, the public is exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMF), which has led to concerns about the potential health effects of EMF exposures. This paper aims to evaluate personal EMF exposures from wireless signals in indoor and outdoor micro-environments in Malaysia. According to the influencing factors, four different types of micro-environments are selected. A radiation exposure meter called ExpoM-RF 4 is used to measure the electric field strength across these micro-environments. From the measurement campaigns, three machine learning (ML) techniques are simulated to model the Electric Field Strength in each micro-environment. The ML techniques are Fully connected neural network (FCNN), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XG Boost), and Linear Regression (LR) to predict the RMS and Maximum radiation exposure. From the ML models, Total Emission Ratio (TER), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Coefficient of Determination (R2) are evaluated to measure the performance of ML. By comparison, it is found that LR performs well with single and simple data set, while XG Boost and FCNN demonstrate superior capabilities in handling multiple types of data sets. The FCNN model provides the most accurate predictions, particularly in urban and suburban areas where extreme values are observed. Finally, the measured data and the predicted radiation exposure levels are compared against public exposure limit by International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The results demonstrate that typically personal radiation exposure is lower than the exposure limit (61.4 V/m), which is similar to the most research results. However, in areas with dense population and numerous base stations, the maximum exposure can approach 56.7365 V/m (measured data), which is close to the exposure limit.
CONCLUSION
LR has better prediction results under single and simple data sets, while XG Boost and FCNN have stronger analysis capabilities for multiple types of data sets. In addition, FCNN predicts best in the presence of extreme values and analyzing large and complex data.
By comparing and analyzing the measured data and predicted values across different micro-environments, it is observed that the highest levels of personal radiation exposure typically occur in outdoor urban areas, which is characterized by high population density, high concentration of base stations, and close proximity to these stations. In contrast, park areas with dense vegetation exhibit significantly lower personal radiation exposure. The dense trees act as natural attenuators, absorbing and scattering the electromagnetic waves, which reduces their intensity. Indoor environments generally exhibit lower electromagnetic field strengths compared to outdoor environments. This can be attributed to structural shielding provided by building materials and fewer high-power sources.
Typically, Electric Field Strength is much lower than the international exposure limits, which is similar to the most research results [2, 6, 13, 14, 16]. However, in areas with dense population and base stations, the maximum value of Electric Field Strength would increase at some point, even close to the exposure limit.
--
The use of different exposure metrics in the research about the health impacts of electromagnetic fields
European Research Cluster on EMF and Health (CLUE-H). The use of different exposure metrics in the research about the health impacts of electromagnetic fields. 2024, Policy brief, 1: 1-8.
No abstract
Excerpts
Figure 5. Near-field sources contribute most to the RF-EMF energy absorbed by the human body. However, the contribution of individual near-field sources depends on their positioning
with respect to the investigated organ or part of the body. The mean overall cumulative dose for whole-body was calculated at 0.29 J/kg/day and for brain it was 0.81 J/kg/day [1].
For RF-EMF, well-established effects include tissue heating, microwave hearing for highly pulsed radiation (e.g., from a radar), and tissue stimulation (e.g., from contact currents). Accordingly, different metrics are specified in the regulations to prevent these effects from happening. For instance, thermal effects are only a problem for health if a certain threshold is exceeded. Below this threshold, temperature rise is not expected to cause health effects.
In RF-EMF research, thermal effects are of limited interest because they are well understood. However, research has provided indications for biological effects below the thermal threshold such as effects on brain physiology or oxidative balance. Such biological effects, which per se are not health effects, could be the consequences of unknown biological mechanisms or could occur due to subtle warming of the tissue below the thermal damage threshold. Historically, epidemiology has been investigating health effects without prior knowledge of the underlying disease mechanism by comparing people who are exposed to a variable extent to the agent of interest. In this case a common approach for complex exposure situations is the time weighted average (TWA), i.e., exposure levels in different situations (e.g., at home, at work, during commuting) are averaged taking into account the time spent in these situations. This approach has also been applied in RF-EMF research dealing with far field exposures. However, it is not suitable for combining near and far field exposures since different metrics are used for these two types of exposure. Thus, a cumulative dose metric was introduced in RF-EMF research a few years ago. In an approach to the TWA concept, SAR for various exposure situations (e.g., mobile phone call, WiFi access point exposure, etc.) is multiplied with the corresponding exposure duration to obtain a cumulative RF-EMF dose, often expressed per day (J/kg/day).
Calculation of cumulative dose in RF-EMF epidemiology allows combining different exposure situations into one metric. It considers magnitude and duration of each exposure situation and is based on the same philosophy as a time weighted average. In principle, cumulative dose refers to a linear-no-threshold model but is actually correlated to most other plausible effect models such as time spent above a certain threshold. It is a conservative approach, since it considers the possibility that long-term exposure to low levels might affect health, which is a common concern of parts of the population in relation to environmental RF-EMF exposure. It may also be helpful for risk communication as it enables to compare the contribution of various RF-EMF exposure situations to a combined metric of the absorbed RF-EMF.
The use of a cumulative dose metric in research should not be mistaken as an indication or proof that cumulative exposure to very low levels can be harmful to health. It just serves as the currently best metric to analyse if there could be effects on health, outside of a known biological mechanism.
In conclusion, the existence of various exposure measures in the field of RF-EMF research on health reflects the involvement of different biophysical concepts and exposure situations. Further, different metrics are used for different purpose:
• For biological research, physical quantities that best represent an underlying biophysical mechanism are usually the preference (e.g., SAR value, internal electrical field).
• For observational research aiming to explore a yet unknown effect on health, preference may be given to metrics that combine similar sources (e.g., time-weighted average, cumulatively absorbed dose) and are seen as superior in capturing exposures experienced over a long time period.).
• For regulation purposes, the suitable metric depends on the exposure situation (e.g., external electric field strength or power density for far field sources or spatially averaged SAR for localized near field exposures).
• For risk communication with the public, metrics which are intuitively understood, are considered most useful (e.g., fraction of regulatory limit).
There is a Council Recommendation [2] that is currently being amended due to the fact that new measurement methods have emerged. The work of CLUE-H contributes to improving
our knowledge base on measurement methods and limit values, which will be useful for future updates of the Recommendation.
--
Auto-Induced Downlink Radiofrequency
Electromagnetic Field Exposure at 3.5 GHz With Focusing Near the Head
Herssens H, Thielens A. Auto-Induced Downlink Radiofrequency
Electromagnetic Field Exposure at 3.5 GHz With Focusing Near the Head. IEEE Access, vol. 13, pp. 56659-56670, 2025, doi:
10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3555388.
Abstract
The auto-induced downlink exposure at 3.5 GHz is evaluated in
networks where the power density is focused at the user equipment (UE),
leading to a highly localized exposure. To achieve this focusing,
various precoding techniques can be applied. Two of these are compared
using Finite-Difference Time-Domain simulations. For each technique,
three different exposure scenarios are considered: UE located next to
the ear (phone call), UE located in front of the eyes, and the nose
(video call). The exposure is evaluated in terms of the localized
specific absorption rate using a female and a male phantom. We find that
the exposure highly depends on the location of the UE and precoding
technique. According to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing
Radiation protection (ICNIRP)’s guidelines, this exposure should be
normalized to the maximum incident power density. In this work, we
suggest normalization strategies of this highly focused exposure and
compare these. We show that the choice of normalization can create a
situation where the ICNIRP basic restrictions can be exceeded while
complying with the reference levels. This is important because
compliance with the reference levels should ideally ensure compliance
with the basic restrictions.
--
In-Situ
Measurements of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Measurements
Around 5G Macro Base Stations in the UK
Calderon C, Addison D, Peyman A. In-Situ
Measurements of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Measurements
Around 5G Macro Base Stations in the UK. Bioelectromagnetics. 2025
Jul;46(5):e70012. doi: 10.1002/bem.70012.
Abstract
Radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic field spot measurements were
performed in line-of-sight to 56 active 5G macro base stations across 30
publicly accessible locations in the United Kingdom (UK). Four
different exposure scenarios were assessed: background (no traffic
instigation), streaming videos, downlink speed test, and extrapolation
of SS-RSRP decoder measurements. Power density measurements across the
420 MHz-6 GHz frequency range were also performed at each site to assess
the total exposure from various RF sources in the environment. Both
total RF and 5G specific power density levels were found to be well
within the 1998 ICNIRP public reference levels, even when extrapolating
to worst-case scenario (≤ 5%). 4G downlink was the dominant contributor
to total RF exposure, with 5G contributing on average less than 10%. No
statistically significant difference was observed between beamforming
and non-beamforming sites. Streaming did not seem to contribute
materially to exposure levels, suggesting that background measurements
are a good representation of typical downlink exposure at current urban
and suburban 5G sites.
--
Exposure to
26.5 GHz, 5G modulated and unmodulated signal, does not affect key
cellular endpoints of human neuroblastoma cells
Sannino A, Allocca M, Scarfì MR, Romeo S,
Peluso V, Panariello G, Schettino F, Chirico G, Zeni O. Exposure to
26.5 GHz, 5G modulated and unmodulated signal, does not affect key
cellular endpoints of human neuroblastoma cells. Sci Rep. 2025 Jul
1;15(1):20614. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-04834-3.
Abstract
The fifth generation (5G) network is currently being worldwide spread
out, raising questions about its potential health impact. The current
study aimed to investigate the effects of a 26.5 GHz 5G electromagnetic
field on key cellular endpoints of human neuroblastoma cells. A
reverberation chamber-based exposure system was designed and realized
which allowed the exposure/sham exposure of cell cultures under highly
controlled exposure conditions of both electromagnetic and biological
parameters. The suitability of the reverberation chambers to host cell
cultures was verified by evaluating cell proliferation and cell cycle
progression. The effect of 3 h exposure at specific absorption rate of
1.25 W/kg under both continuous wave and 5G modulated signal was
evaluated in terms of cell cycle and DNA damage. In the latter case, the
exposure was also given in combination with menadione to account for
possible cooperative effects. Results showed absence of effects of
exposure given alone and in combination with menadione, when both
continuous wave and modulated signals were applied at the mentioned
exposure level. Further investigations are needed by varying the
exposure and biological parameters to strengthen the absence of effects
due to 5G signals in the range of millimeter waves.
--
Histomorphometric study of thyroid tissue in juvenile rats exposed to 5G electromagnetic fields
Ramelet M, Ronger L, Al-Salameh A, Pelletier A, Desailloud R, Seewooruttun C. Histomorphometric study of thyroid tissue in juvenile rats exposed to 5G electromagnetic fields. Annales d'Endocrinologie.86(3), 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.ando.2025.101755.
Abstract
Introduction 5G network deployment raises the issue of the health impact of these electromagnetic fields. Their effect on thermal regulation is of a “cold reesponse” type. In rats exposed to 900MHz, vasoconstriction was induced in the tail, with behavioral preference for warmer compartments. The hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis is involved in thermogenesis: in response to cold, thyroid activity increases, stimulating heat production.
Objective To assess thyroid activity after 5G exposure.
Method Ten 3-week-old male Wistar rats were randomized between 2 weeks’ 5G exposure at 3.5GHz and 1.5V/m (5G group; n=5) and no exposure (controls; n=5). After sacrifice, the thyroid gland was harvested for histomorphometry. Thyroid follicle and colloid areas were measured and the thyroid activation index (TAI: ratio of follicle to colloid area) was assessed.
Results Follicle and colloid areas were significantly greater in 5G (2729μm2 vs 2444μm2, P=0.0063; and 1317μm2 vs 1015μm2, P=0.0027 respectively) and TAI was significantly lower (5.62 vs 7.07, P <0.001). These results indicate thyroid hypoactivity.
Discussion There was a 5G effect, with histomorphometry demonstrating thyroid hypoactivity, suggesting mechanisms different from those underlying cold response. Impact of electromagnetic fields on thyroid function was previously reported, but results were heterogeneous and discordant depending on the type of exposure.
Conclusion TSH and thyroid hormone assays are underway to reinforce assessment of thyroid function. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanism.
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Protective effects of quercetin against 3.5 GHz RF
radiation-induced thyroid dysfunction and oxidative stress in rats
Bektas H, Bese Akgun BB, Cakir S, Dogu S,
Ahnas B. Protective effects of quercetin against 3.5 GHz RF
radiation-induced thyroid dysfunction and oxidative stress in rats.
Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Jul 8:1-12. doi:
10.1080/15368378.2025.2528732.
Abstract
The global expansion of 5 G communication networks has heightened
concerns about the biological effects of high-frequency radiofrequency
(RF) radiation, particularly on endocrine organs such as the thyroid
gland. This study investigated the effects of 3.5 GHz RF radiation on
thyroid hormone levels and oxidative stress markers in male Wistar rats
and assessed the potential protective role of quercetin, a natural
antioxidant. Twenty-eight rats were randomly assigned to four groups:
Sham, RF, Quercetin, and RF + Quercetin. RF exposure was administered at
3.5 GHz (2 W) for 2 hours/day, 5 days/week, for 30 days. Quercetin (20
mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally. Serum levels of T3, T4, and
TSH, as well as thyroid tissue levels of TAS, TOS, GSH, and MDA, were
analyzed using ELISA. RF exposure significantly decreased T3 and T4,
increased TSH, elevated MDA and TOS, and reduced TAS and GSH levels.
Quercetin treatment showed trends toward reversing some of these
effects, although not all changes reached statistical significance. SAR
simulations confirmed higher energy absorption in the thyroid region
(average SAR: 1.128 W/kg). These findings suggest that 3.5 GHz RF
radiation may impair thyroid function and redox homeostasis, and that
quercetin may exert limited biochemical protection, though further
studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. Further long-term molecular
studies are warranted to elucidate the mechanisms involved.
Plain Language Summary
With
the increasing rollout of 5 G networks, concerns have emerged regarding
the potential health impacts of high-frequency radio signals,
especially on sensitive organs like the thyroid gland. In this study,
researchers explored how repeated exposure to 3.5 GHz RF radiation
affects thyroid health in rats, and whether quercetin – a plant-based
antioxidant – can offer protection. Rats were exposed to RF radiation
for one month, and key hormone and oxidative stress indicators were
measured. The results showed that RF exposure disrupted thyroid hormone
levels and increased cellular stress. Quercetin treatment showed some
potential in alleviating certain changes, though its effects were not
consistent across all measured parameters. Simulations also showed high
absorption of RF energy in the thyroid area. These findings raise
awareness about the possible biological effects of long-term 5 G
exposure and suggest that natural antioxidants like quercetin may offer
partial protection. Further research is needed to understand how these
findings may apply to human health.
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The effects of short-term and long-term 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on adult rat auditory brainstem response
Er H, Basaranlar G., Derin N., Kantar D, Ozen S. (2025). The effects of short-term and long-term 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on adult rat auditory brainstem response. Open Chemistry, 23(1), 20250173. doi: 10.1515/chem-2025-0173.
Abstract
Although mobile phones that work with RFR provide very important
benefits for our lives, they may have negative effects. Namely, side
effects, such as headaches, sleep disorders, dizziness, lower sperm
quality, changes in brain potentials, an increase in oxidative stress
levels, and a decrease in antioxidant parameters, have been reported due
to mobile phone use. Accordingly, the aim of this research is to
investigate the effects of acute and chronic 2100 MHz radiofrequency
radiation (RFR) exposure on the auditory brainstem response (ABR) in
adult rats. Study groups (n = 10 rats): Sh-1: sham for 1 week;
Sh-10: sham for 10 weeks; 2100-1: 2100 MHz for 1 week; and 2100-10:
2100 MHz for 10 weeks. RFR groups were applied for 2 h/day (5 day/week)
2100 MHz RFR, whereas sham groups were kept under identical
circumstances without RFR. ABR were recorded, and biochemical and
ultrastructural examinations in the rat brain were carried out. In the
acute RFR group, the latencies of all ABR waves were prolonged compared
to the sham group. In the acute RFR group, brain 4-hydroxynonenal,
thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and protein carbonyl content
levels increased and catalase and superoxide dismutase activities
decreased compared to the acute sham group. Edema in acute RFR group
neurons, astrocytes, astrocytic end-feet, and mitochondrial damage in
astrocytes were observed. Our data imply that acute exposure to 2100 MHz
RFR may have adverse impacts on the auditory system, while chronic
exposure with certain rest days has no harmful effects.
Excerpt
In this study, the experimental apparatus and RFR application were identical to those previously reported [
5]. However, the RFR frequency, the distance of the rats
from the antenna, and therefore, the specific absorption rate (SAR)
values were different. In this system, a 2100 MHz radiofrequency
generator (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System [UMTS] Simulator
2100 MHz; Everest Company, Adapazari, Turkiye) was used to simulate
exposure to UMTS radiation. The electric-field strength measured above
the rat’s head in the “signal-on” condition was found to be 35.2 V/m.
The average SARs for the whole body and brain were 128 mW/kg and
0.27 W/kg, respectively. The computational analysis was conducted
utilizing the finite difference time domain method [12]. Published sources were utilized to obtain data on electrical properties, dielectric constant, and conductivity [13,14].
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Electromagnetic fields from mobile phones: A risk for maintaining energy homeostasis?
Seewooruttun
C, Mai TC, Corona A, Delanaud S, de Seze R, Bach V, Desailloud R,
Pelletier A. Electromagnetic fields from mobile phones: A risk for
maintaining energy homeostasis? Annales d'Endocrinologie. 86(3). 2025.
doi: 10.1016/j.ando.2025.101782.
Abstract
In the world,
there is a near ubiquitous presence of a low-intensity radiofrequency
electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) radiation, due to telecommunications as
mobile phones. However, their rapid expansion raises concerns about
possible interaction with biological mechanisms. The RF-EMF safety
guidelines recommended limits to protect against the thermal heating,
the most recognized effect at high intensity levels with a known
biophysical mechanism. Among all the effects studied, the impact of
RF-EMF exposure on thermoregulation is one of the most important aspects
of this research. This review aims to present the complex relationship
between RF-EMF exposure and thermoregulation, at intensity levels below
the threshold to produce thermal effects. In fact, most studies showed
that RF-EMF exposure at 900MHz seems to elicit physiological and
biological effects similar to responses inducing by cold environment in
two different rodent models. In this brief review, we will describe the
effects and underlying mechanisms induced by RF-EMF exposure at low
levels and discuss the potential implications for environmental health
and safety.
Conclusion
In
modern society, exposure to RF-EMF is very common and nearly impossible
to avoid. Despite its major impact in driving technological
advancements, it is important to address the growing public concern in
regards to RF-EMF exposure. The thermal effects of high-intensity RF-EMF
exposure (SAR > 4 W/kg) are well documented in the literature.
However, there is now emerging evidence that low-intensity RF-EMF
exposure (SAR < 4 W/kg)
can also elicit thermoregulatory responses associated with a cold
sensation. The present review highlights the behavioural
thermoregulation associated with a cold sensation in rodents exposed to
900 MHz. We also provide molecular insights on RF exposure effects on
different thermogenic mechanisms. The first results suggest that RF
exposure primarily influences WAT browning rather than BAT
thermogenesis, as reported by the up-regulation of UCP1 staining and
reduced adipocyte size in WAT depots. In contrast, the cold-induced
transcriptional changes on BAT thermogenesis were not observed after
exposure to RF, although we detected increased plasma levels of
noradrenaline, fatty acids in exposed rats. At short term, these
adaptive responses do not seem to compromise homeostasis and therefore
the health of organisms, but what about the long-term consequences?
With the introduction of 3.5 GHz
for 5G and early use of wireless technology by infants, further
research is needed to determine these thermoregulatory effects.
Investigating the peripheral tail temperature and thermal preference of
5G-exposed rats at different ages could provide valuable insights into
their thermoregulatory responses. Additionally, the implication of the
thyroid on these responses need to be more investigated. In fact, the
hormones secreted by the thyroid regulate the basic metabolism and the
processes implicated in lipolysis in adipose tissues to increase the
production of energy in cells and heat by the thermogenesis.
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Characterization of the Core Temperature Response of Free-Moving Rats
to 1.95 GHz Electromagnetic Fields
Bala N, Croft RJ, McIntosh RL, Iskra S, Frankland JV, McKenzie RJ, Deng
C. Characterization of the Core Temperature Response of Free-Moving Rats
to 1.95 GHz Electromagnetic Fields. Bioelectromagnetics. 2025
Jul;46(5):e70013. doi: 10.1002/bem.70013.
Abstract
The present study investigated the core body temperature (CBT) response
of free‐moving adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats, during and
following a 3‐h exposure to 1.95 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic
fields (RF‐EMFs) within custom‐built reverberation chambers, using
temperature capsules implanted within the intraperitoneal cavity and
data transmitted via radiotelemetry. Comparing RF‐EMF exposures (at
Whole‐Body Average‐Specific Absorption Rate [WBA‐SAR] levels of 0.1,
0.4, and 4 W/kg) to the sham exposed condition, we identified a
statistically significant peak increase in CBT after 26 min of RF‐EMF
exposure at 4 W/kg (+0.49°C), but not in the 0.1 or 0.4 W/kg conditions
at the same timepoint. In the last 30 min of the RF‐EMF exposure,
temperature was significantly increased in both the 4 W/kg (0.62°C) and
0.4 W/kg (0.14°C) conditions, but not 0.1 W/kg, when compared to sham.
After 20 min following cessation of exposure, post temperature was still
significantly higher in the 4 W/kg condition when compared to the sham
(0.37°C), but not in either 0.1 or 0.4 W/kg. Based on our findings, it
is apparent that rats can effectively compensate for increased thermal
loads of up to 4 W/kg as the maximum temperature rise was substantially
lower than 1°C. In addition, the elevated CBT during exposure in the 4
W/kg condition was significantly reduced immediately after exposure
cessation, indicating that measures of CBT following RF‐EMF exposure
cessation may not reflect maximum RF‐EMF‐mediated changes in the CBT of
rats.
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The Influence of an Electromagnetic Field at a
Radiofrequency of 900 MHz on the Behavior of a Honey Bee
Migdał P, Plotnik M,
Bieńkowski P, Berbeć E,
Latarowski K,
Białecka N, Murawska A.
The Influence of an Electromagnetic Field at a
Radiofrequency of 900 MHz on the Behavior of a Honey Bee. Agriculture. 2025; 15(12):1266. doi: 10.3390/agriculture15121266.
Abstract
The development of wireless technology
and the desire to improve communication electromagnetic fields (EMFs) of
various frequencies have become common across the honey bee’s foraging
landscape. There has been discussion for many years about the possible
impact of electromagnetic fields on living organisms. Artificial radio
fields emit frequencies ranging from 100 kHz to 300 GHz. The presented
research aimed to demonstrate the influence of the radiofrequency
electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) with a frequency of 900 MHz on the
behavior of honey bees in laboratory conditions. For this experiment, we
used wooden cages to house honey bee workers immediately after they
emerged. Bee workers were divided into control and experimental groups.
Bees in the control group were not exposed to RF fields, while the
experimental groups were exposed to 900 MHz electromagnetic fields of
different intensities and durations of exposure. Bees’ behavior was
analyzed with an appropriate computer program. Behavioral analysis of
bees was performed immediately after exposure and seven days after
exposure. Our research has shown that the radio field (900 MHz) affects
the behavior of bees compared to the control group, although not all
results are statistically significant. Significant effects were observed
seven days after exposure in walking, flight, and individual contact.
However, it is worth extending the study to include the impact of an
RF-EMF on the expression of genes responsible for bee behavior.
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Mitigation of 3.5 GHz Electromagnetic Field-Induced BV2
Microglial Cytotoxicity by Polydeoxyribonucleotide
Pachhapure S,
Mufida A, Wei Q,
Choi J-S, Jang B-C.
Mitigation of 3.5 GHz Electromagnetic Field-Induced BV2
Microglial Cytotoxicity by Polydeoxyribonucleotide. Current Issues in Molecular Biology. 2025; 47(6):386. doi: 10.3390/cimb47060386
Abstract
Emerging evidence highlights the
biological risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMFs) generated
by electronic devices. The toxic effects and mechanisms induced by
exposure to EMFs on microglial cells and natural substances that inhibit
them are limited to date. Here, we investigated whether exposure to 3.5
GHz EMF radiation, potentially generated by smartphones working in 5G
communication or cooking using microwave ovens, affects the growth of
BV2 mouse microglial cells and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a DNA
preparation derived from salmon sperm, inhibits it. Of note, exposure to
3.5 GHz EMF radiation for 2 h markedly inhibited the growth and
triggered apoptosis in BV2 cells, characterized by the reduced number of
surviving cells, increased genomic DNA fragmentation, increased
reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and altered phosphorylation and
expression levels of JNK-1/2, p38 MAPK, ERK-1/2, eIF-2α, and
procaspase-9. Pharmacological inhibition studies revealed that JNK-1/2
and p38 MAPK activation and ROS generation were crucial for 3.5 GHz
EMF-induced BV2 cytotoxicity. Of interest, PDRN effectively countered
these effects by inhibiting the activation of JNK-1/2, p38 MAPK, and
caspase-9, and the production of ROS, although it did not affect eIF-2
phosphorylation. In conclusion, this study is the first to report that
PDRN protects against 3.5 GHz EMF-induced toxicities in BV2 microglial
cells, and PDRN’s protective effects on 3.5 GHz EMF-induced BV2
cytotoxicity are mediated primarily by modulating ROS, JNK-1/2, p38
MAPK, and caspase-9.
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