Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Recent Research on Wireless Radiation and Electromagnetic Fields

I have been circulating abstracts of newly-published scientific papers on radio frequency and other non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) monthly since 2016. The complete collection contains more than 2000 abstracts with links to these papers. Several hundred EMF scientists around the world receive these updates.

To download Volume 3 which contains abstracts of papers published since 2024 
(including the new papers listed below) click on the following link (409 page pdf):

To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2021 through 2023 
click on the following link (867 page pdf):

To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 through 2020 
click on the following link (875 page pdf):

The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.

 



Greater prevalence of symptoms associated with higher exposures to mobile phone base stations in a hilly, densely populated city in Mizoram, India

Sailo L, Laldinpuii, Zosangzuali M, Weller S, Varte CL, Tochhawng L, McCredden JE, Zothansiama. Greater prevalence of symptoms associated with higher exposures to mobile phone base stations in a hilly, densely populated city in Mizoram, India. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Jun 8:1-20. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2513900.

Abstract

Members of the scientific community and the general public are raising concerns about the potential health and environmental effects of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) for those living nearby mobile phone base stations (MPBS). This study examined the impact of RF-EMF (900-1900 MHz) on symptoms spanning four health categories: mood-energy, cognitive-sensory, inflammatory, and anatomical issues. A questionnaire identifying health symptoms within these categories, was given to 183 highly exposed and 126 reference residents, matched on demographics. While years of residing near the MPBS influenced the prevalence of some symptoms, proximity to the base station and higher levels of exposure (measured using power density) influenced the prevalence of many of the symptoms. A higher proportion of symptoms was found in residents who were either living within 50 meters of a MPBS or who were exposed to power densities of 5-8 mW/m2, for all four health categories. This relationship between exposure level and symptom prevalence was further influenced by age, daily mobile phone use (over 5 h per day), and lifestyle factors, for certain symptoms. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that level of exposure (power density) was the only factor contributing to the number of symptoms experienced by residents, for all four health categories. An unexpected finding was that among the more highly exposed residents, the younger individuals (under 40 years) reported more inflammation related issues than older individuals. These results underscore the need to inform policymakers regarding the benefits of adopting a precautionary approach to potential risks associated with RF-EMF exposures from MPBS.

Plain language summary

Investigating the health effects of man-made electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) created by telecommunications signals from mobile phone base stations is relevant to people living in cities across the world today. The study was conducted in a hilly, highly populated city in Mizoram, India, where many people live close to and in line of sight of the masts on telecommunications towers. A survey was given to residents in their homes, asking about what health symptoms they were experiencing across a range of health categories (mood-energy, cognitive-sensory, inflammatory, and anatomical). At the same time, the level of RF-EMF in their lounge room was measured. The symptoms reported by people living closer to mobile phone base stations (less than 300 m) were compared with those from people living further away (more than 400 m). More people who lived closer to base stations reported health symptoms in all of the health categories investigated. Relatively fewer people who lived further away reported symptoms. Other factors such as age, high mobile phone use (more than 5 h/day) and smoking and drinking also influenced this outcome, for some of the symptoms. The most significant contributor to the number of symptoms reported by residents was the strength of RF-EMF to which they were exposed in their home. A surprising result was that younger people up to 40 years old showed more inflammatory conditions that were related to higher exposures than older people (such as headache, allergy and chest pain). These health effects of RF-EMF should be heeded by those responsible for the installation of mobile phone base stations in cities.

Study implications

"The maximum recorded power density measured at any dwelling was 7.2mW/m2. Most of the measurements taken in dwellings close to the base stations () exceeded the safety limits suggested by the Bioinitiative Report 2012. However, all measured values were significantly lower than both the current ICNIRP whole body exposure public limits of 4500mW/m2 (900MHz) to 10,000mW/m2 (2000MHz and higher frequencies) as well as the present Indian Standard of 450mW/m2 (Saravanamuttu et al. 2015). These standards for public RF-EMF exposures are predominantly focused on the mitigation of “known” harmful thermal effects, but do not comprehensively cover a range of biological consequences that are intrinsically linked to non-thermal biological responses and health, especially for those who are continuously being exposed to this man-made radiation without choice or informed consent. In this context, the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), which has widely been used with ionising radiation, has been recommended (Leach and Bromwich 2018).

Table 3 reveals that symptom prevalence was associated with duration of exposure. In toxicology research, the dose of a toxicant is understood to incorporate both intensity and duration of exposure (Tsatsakis et al. 2018).

The ICNIRP guidelines set safety limits based on exposure intensity, averaged over 6 or 30minutes. Therefore, they do not factor in cumulative doses occurring over time in the real world. Laboratory studies are mostly restricted to timescales of minutes to weeks. Within studies using the longer of these timescales, biphasic effects have been observed (where effects are positive in the short term but then return to baseline as exposure duration increases and become negative with even longer exposure times) suggesting very short -term protective effects such as immune system priming, but detrimental effects after longer exposures (e.g., Fesenko et al. 1999). While adaptive responses have been suggested for long term exposures (Vijayalaxmi et al. 2014), the longer timescales of laboratory experiments show more negative effects. However, there are very few long-term laboratory studies.

Epidemiological data, such as that presented in this study, measures exposures over years and thus has been more able to reveal detrimental, cumulative effects that occur over time. Epidemiological research and intensity x time calculations need to be factored in when setting safety limits for populations who are continuously exposed over a lifetime.

While this study sampled only a moderate sized population from the city of Aizawl, the results can be used to inform public policy on this matter. Our results add to the understanding of health effects related to chronic exposure to RF-Fields emitted from MPBS. Risk management does not require definitive conclusions. Early warnings such as the results of this study provide adequate evidence for policy makers to act, including requiring industry to seek solutions (Gee 2009; Leach et al. 2024). The study results indicate that exposure to RF-EMF at levels lower than the Government recommended general public “safety” threshold can still lead to significant health challenges. The study revealed that the level of MPBS RF-EMF exposure was a primary contributor to the elevated prevalence of a range of health symptoms observed among residents in close proximity to MPBS. Concerning results that have revealed more inflammatory symptoms in resident younger than 40years living close to MPBS require follow up.

Following these important findings, it is crucial to critically reassess current public RF exposure safety limits in order to include the growing evidence of non-thermal biological impacts of RF-EMF emitted by MPBS over years. The study results emphasize the importance of establishing exposure limits that are based on biological factors, other than heating, to minimize exposure and address the long-term potential for serious health consequences; i.e., “An independent re-evaluation of RFR exposure limits based on the scientific knowledge gained over the past 25years is needed and is long overdue” (Belyaev et al. 2022)."

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/15368378.2025.2513900

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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.


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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.


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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.



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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

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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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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. 


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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.


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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.


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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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The influence of Wi-Fi on the mesonephros in the 9-day-old chicken embryo

Almášiová V, AndraÅ¡ková S, Karaffová V, Hudáková P, Molnár J, Tóth Å , Holovská K. The influence of Wi-Fi on the mesonephros in the 9-day-old chicken embryo. Vet Res Commun. 2025 Jun 10;49(4):216. doi: 10.1007/s11259-025-10777-x. 

Abstract

The use of wireless devices has increased rapidly in recent times, especially in developed countries. As a result, all living systems are to some extent permanently exposed to this artificial electromagnetic non-ionizing radiation (NIR). These modern devices provide countless benefits to the users, but the disadvantage of their excessive use is the production of electrosmog. This physical pollutant of the environment can be particularly dangerous especially during the developmental period of the individual. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the effect of Wi-Fi radiation on the mesonephros development in the chicken embryo on day 9 of incubation. Continual 9-day application of radiation with a frequency of 2.4 GHz and a power density of 200-500 µW/m2 had no adverse effect on the general development of the mesonephros, however moderate diffuse degenerative changes were found in the developing mesonephric corpuscles and tubules. Also congested blood vessels were present in the surrounding interstitium, but no signs of inflammatory infiltrate were detected. In the Wi-Fi group, we also noted a significantly increased number of apoptotic and proliferating cells as well as a significant up-regulation of caspase-1 gene expression. The results indicated that non-ionizing radiation at the frequency and power density used in the study can interfere with the key regulatory mechanisms involved in the normal development of tissues and organs.


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The proliferation rates of HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma cells can be accelerated or inhibited by weak static and extremely low frequency magnetic fields

Marek B, Nhat D, de Mingo Isabel L, Jason K, Hakki G, Ladislav J, Barnes F. The proliferation rates of HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma cells can be accelerated or inhibited by weak static and extremely low frequency magnetic fields. Frontiers in Public Health. Volume 13 - 2025.  doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1535155.

Abstract

Introduction  Weak static and low-frequency magnetic fields (MFs) have been hypothesized to influence biological systems through mechanisms involving nuclear spin coupling. This study investigates how such fields modulate the proliferation of HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells. 

Methods  HT-1080 cells were exposed in vitro for 4 days to weak MFs with a 10 μT amplitude and frequencies between 12 Hz and 33 Hz, superimposed on a 45 μT static background field. Changes in cell growth, mitochondrial superoxide (O2−), calcium ion (Ca2+) concentrations, and membrane potential were measured.

Results  Results revealed that MFs could either increase or decrease fibrosarcoma cell growth in a frequency- and amplitude-dependent manner. Inversions in growth rates were observed near 16.5 Hz, where a 0.5 Hz shift or amplitude changes as small as 250 nT reversed effects relative to controls. Reversing the static field direction also inverted growth outcomes. Changes in membrane potential, Ca2+, and mitochondrial superoxide levels supported a role for bioenergetic modulation.

Discussion  These findings suggest that weak MFs affect cell proliferation through spin-dependent chemical reaction rate changes. The pronounced sensitivity of fibrosarcoma cells compared to normal fibroblasts points to potential therapeutic applications via selective MF-based modulation.


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Impact of magnetic fields from tablets, laptops, smartphones, and household/leisure magnets on cardiac implantable electronic devices

Kamitani N, Miyazaki A, Tomida S, Shimizu K, Ohira N, Kondo K, Miura H, Koyama D, Tominaga S, Henmi R, Sugiura R, Masui H. Impact of magnetic fields from tablets, laptops, smartphones, and household/leisure magnets on cardiac implantable electronic devices. J Arrhythm. 2025 Jun 30;41(4):e70106. doi: 10.1002/joa3.70106. 

Abstract

Background  Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) activate the magnet response at a magnetic flux density of ≥10 gauss (G), which may cause unintended pacing, leading to discomfort or even severe arrhythmias. Information processing devices have recently incorporated magnets, which may activate the magnet mode in patients with abdominally implanted devices, subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs), or extravascular ICDs.

Methods  We investigated the effects of the magnetic fields generated by information processing devices (tablets, laptops, and smartphones) and household/leisure magnets on 13 models of CIEDs, analyzing their association with magnet mode activation in different manufacturers' CIEDs.

Results  The tested magnet materials exhibited a maximum magnetic flux density of 290–1360 G. The magnetic flux density distribution in the information processing devices was as follows: accessory connectors, speakers, cameras, and microphones (p = 0.0001). The median activation distances for the magnet mode were 6.5 (range, 4–15), 5 (4–11.3), and 0.01 (activated only when attached; 0–7) mm for tablets and laptops, smartphones, and household/leisure magnets, respectively (p < 0.0001). The maximum distance at which the magnetic flux density decreased below 10 G was the longest for tablets and laptop computers at 18 mm.

Conclusion  Information processing devices and household/leisure magnets can affect CIEDs when placed in close proximity. Among the devices tested, magnet mode activation did not occur at distances of ≥20 mm. Considering the increasing prevalence of information processing devices and the growing adoption of nonthoracic CIED placements, raising awareness among patients about potential interactions is crucial.


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SAR Estimations in a Classroom with Wireless Computers

Soares NE, Bulla G, Fernández-Rodríguez CE, de Salles AAA. SAR Estimations in a Classroom with Wireless Computers.  J. Microw. Optoelectron. Electromagn. Appl. 24 (02) • 202. https://doi.org/10.1590/2179-10742025v24i3288526

Abstract

This research provides detailed examination of the peak spatial Specific Absorption Rate (psSAR) in different age students in a classroom with wireless computers. This is motivated by the escalating inclusion of electronic devices in educational settings and the necessity to estimate the implications of this on the overall radio-frequency exposure. Two classrooms with posable realistic human models are simulated. One filled with several 7 years old children and another with several 43 years old adult, each using a laptop. The 1 g and 10 g psSAR are calculated for the head, back and hands. The distances between students are varied and the results compared to one student alone. A small free distance between rows (10 cm) produces significant reduction in psSAR (around 13 dB). Results are less sensitives to changes in lateral distance. While the maximum simulated psSAR values are below the recommended limits, it is observed that, in some classroom arrangements, the psSAR can be substantially increased (e.g., up to 26 dB in the back) comparing to just one student with his laptop. One objective of this study is to provide guidelines for the design of safer classrooms in the context of widespread laptop usage.

Excerpts

"The psSAR simulation in a classroom should consider the interaction between multiple EMF sources and the matter in the environment. While other sources such as smartphones and routers can be present, for simplicity, only the laptop of each student connected in a Wi-Fi network is considered.

The 2.45 GHz band was chosen for computational reasons. Using the 5 GHz band would have increased the mesh by 10-fold.

According to the IEEE 802.11-2020 Standard, the maximum delivered power is 100 mW. This value is used in the simulations. The simulated signals are continuous waves (CW) at the center of the band or CW modulated by a gaussian pulse to cover the whole band."

"The psSAR values obtained in this study, even for the worst case, are below the safety limits recommended by the ICNIRP [2] and IEEE [14]. However, since children can stay in the classrooms for a long time, it is important to observe that long-term exposure to low levels of electromagnetic radiation should also be considered, since they can produce health effects too [1]. Among others, long time exposure can be of serious concern, due to possible biochemical effects not considered in the simulations. Further to that, other EMF sources, such as smartphones, can be used simultaneously in the classrooms and therefore should also be considered in the simulations."

"CONCLUSIONS

The results show that, generally the psSAR decreases as the distance between students’ desks increases, as expected. Increased EMF exposure in the classroom were observed when comparing with one student alone, such as up to 4-fold in the hands, 45-fold in the head and 40-fold in the back/dorsal.

Fluctuations in the psSAR plots can be due to the EMF multipath random combinations in amplitude and phase. Also, it is observed that as the distance is increased, the positions of the psSAR are displaced along the body. For instance, in the head, the psSAR is displaced from one ear to the nose and to the other ear. Simulations show that hot spots position varies, since EMF may be increased or diminished when distance is varied, depending on the EMF phase.

Overall, simulations show that if the distance between the chair and the back desk is increased, then the EMF exposure is reduced. E.g., for 5 cm distance increase, the EMF exposure in the back can be reduced around 63 percent and for 50 cm distance increase, the EMF exposure can be reduced around 90 percent.

In order to reduce the EMF health risks, the authors suggest that wireless communications should be avoided in places where people could stay for long time, such as in the classrooms, libraries, offices, homes, etc., and the devices should then be connected using cables (e. g., ethernet or fiber optic), increasing therefore the bandwidth and reducing energy consumption."


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Bus-exposure matrix, a tool to assess bus drivers' exposure to physicochemical hazards

Remy VFM, Innocent G, Vernez D, Guseva Canu I. Bus-exposure matrix, a tool to assess bus drivers' exposure to physicochemical hazards. Ann Work Expo Health. 2025 Jun 20:wxaf036. doi: 10.1093/annweh/wxaf036. 

Abstract

Swiss bus drivers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, fatigue, and stress and have an excessive mortality from lung cancer and suicide compared to other workers. However, their occupational exposure is poorly documented. We created a bus-exposure matrix (BEM) to determine occupational exposures to 10 types of physical-chemical hazards for 705 bus models used in Switzerland since 1980. For this, we made a comprehensive bus inventory and review of 50 technical characteristics of each bus model, identified 10 bus models representative of the Swiss bus fleet evolution, and conducted static and dynamic exposure measurement campaigns in the representative buses. The measured values were then extended to the entire fleet using Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) models. The choice of predictors and technical bus characteristics included in the models were based on directed acyclic graphs. To demonstrate the usefulness of the BEM as an exposure assessment tool, we used data from the 2022 survey of Swiss bus drivers who listed the bus models they had driven during their careers. The BEM linkage with these bus drivers' histories enabled us to estimate annual exposure to PM10 ratio (-), ultrafine particle ratio (-), whole-body vibration (m/s2), floor vibration (m/s2), equivalent noise (dB(A)), peak noise (dB(C)), high-frequencies electric fields (V/m), low-frequencies magnetic field (µT), low-frequencies electric fields (V/m), and air exchange rate (1/h) of 809 Swiss bus drivers. Historical data assessment from 1985 through 2022 showed that peak noise, high- and low-frequencies electric field levels have increased, while PM10 ratio, ultrafine particle ratio, equivalent noise, whole-body vibration levels, and air exchange rate have decreased. This, first in the world, BEM is an original tool for retrospective exposure assessment that will enable further research in the occupational health of bus drivers.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40578599/

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Human achromatic flickers and phosphenes thresholds under extremely low frequency electric stimulations

Bouisset N, Carvallo A, Laporte M, Legros A. Human achromatic flickers and phosphenes thresholds under extremely low frequency electric stimulations. Sci Rep. 2025 Jul 3;15(1):23779. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-06271-8. 

Abstract

Human exposure to extremely low-frequency (< 300 Hz) electric/magnetic fields elicits a stroboscopic visual perception called electro/magneto phosphenes. The induction of phosphenes is the most exhaustively documented effect of in-situ electric fields. Thus, they are used by international guidelines as the basis for limiting human exposure to extremely low-frequency electric and magnetic fields. This study aimed to estimate the phosphene perception locus and threshold during an electric current stimulation for four different frequencies (20, 50, 60, and 100 Hz) and to estimate the associated in-situ electric field. Phosphene perception probabilities were calculated in 20 volunteers using binary logistic regressions applied to perceptual responses resulting from non-invasive transcranial alternating current stimulation between 0 and 2 mA delivered at 20, 50, 60, and 100 Hz. A dosimetry analysis was done to study the in-situ electric field induced in the retina during the electric stimulation. The data indicate that the stimulation current plays a significant role in the model’s predictions across all frequencies. Phosphene perception thresholds were lowest at 20 Hz, while no perceptible phosphene were observed at 100 Hz. The findings of this study are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of phosphene induction and further support the retinal origin of phosphenes. The observed thresholds and trends will inform updates to international guidelines and standards.


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Influence of geomagnetic disturbances on myocardial infarctions in women and men from Brazil

Rezende LFC, De Paula ER, Muella MTAH, Dutra SLG, Rosa RR, Saldiva PHN, Ometto JPHB. Influence of geomagnetic disturbances on myocardial infarctions in women and men from Brazil. Commun Med (Lond). 2025 Jul 1;5(1):247. doi: 10.1038/s43856-025-00887-7. 

Abstract

Background  Understanding the role of space weather, specifically Geomagnetic Disturbances (GMDs) caused by solar activity, on health outcomes is unclear. One emerging link includes the impact of space weather on myocardial infarctions (MI). In this study we examined the correlation between MI and GMDs in Brazil.

Methods  We used a database from the public health in Brazil, focusing on the city of São José dos Campos (23° 10′ 44″ S, 45° 53′ 13″ W), located in the state of São Paulo, during the period of 1998–2005. We focused on admissions for MIs, which included a total of 871 men and 469 women. We categorized the MI data into three age groups: age 30 and younger, age 31–60, and age over 60. Additionally, we incorporated Planetary Index (Kp) data as an indicator of variations in the Earth’s geomagnetic field resulting from solar disturbances, categorized as quiet, moderate, or disturbed days. In our analysis, we employed two methods: statistical counting and the unsupervised clustering known as K-Means, considering the attributes of age, sex, and geomagnetic condition.

Results  Here we show that geomagnetic conditions have an impact on MI cases, particularly for women. The rate of relative frequency of MI cases during disturbed geomagnetic conditions is almost three times greater compared to quiet geomagnetic conditions. Using the unsupervised K-Means algorithm, the results indicate that the group associated with disturbed geomagnetic conditions has a higher incidence of MIs in women.

Conclusions  Overall, our results provide evidence that women may exhibit a higher susceptibility to the effects of geomagnetic disturbances caused by solar activity on MI.