Electromagnetic Radiation Safety: 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 2500 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 (442 page pdf):

https://bit.ly/EMFStudies-Aug-2025

To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2021 through 2023

click on the following link (867 page pdf):

https://bit.ly/EMFStudies-2021-2023

To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 through 2020

click on the following link (875 page pdf):

https://bit.ly/EMFStudies-2016-2020

The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.

Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field Emissions and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants: A Prospective Cohort Study

Setia M S, Natesan R, Samant P, et al. (July 10, 2025) Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field Emissions and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants: A Prospective Cohort Study. Cureus 17(7): e87671. doi:10.7759/cureus.87671.

Abstract

Purpose It has been argued that children are particularly at risk of developing health effects due to the emitted radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). We designed this cohort to measure the association between exposure to RF-EMF radiation and neurodevelopmental changes in neonates and infants.

Methods We present an analysis of 261 observations from a cohort of 105 neonates. The cohort was formed of pregnant women, and the neonates born to these women were followed for a period of one year. We assessed the level of radiation in the house using the Selective Radiation Meter 3006 (Narda Worldwide, Germany) and neurodevelopment using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire® (ASQ®)-3. We used random effects models for multiple observations in the same individual, and the main explanatory variable was household radiation levels (divided into tertiles as low/medium/high).

Results The median (interquartile range (IQR)) range of radiation in all the households was 8.66 (IQR: 1.58, 23.11) mW/m². It was 0.62 (IQR: 0.43, 1.58) mW/m² in the lowest tertile, 8.66 (IQR: 5.00, 10.78) mW/m² in the middle tertile, and 32.36 (IQR: 23.11, 45.60) mW/m² in the highest tertile (p=0.0001). The mean scores were significantly lower in the middle and higher tertiles of LOR for the gross motor, fine motor, and problem-solving domains. The odds of children classified as ‘monitor/refer’ was significantly higher in the ‘high radiation group’ compared with ‘low radiation group’ for the fine motor (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.74, 95% CI: 1.10, 6.78; p=0.03) and problem-solving domains (aOR: 3.67, 95% CI: 1.41, 9.55; p=0.008). We also found that low birth weight babies were significantly more likely to be classified as ‘monitor/refer’ for fine motor (aOR: 4.19, 95% CI: 1.73, 10.14; p=0.001), and problem solving (aOR: 2.57, 95% CI: 1.08, 6.13; p=0.033) domains.

Conclusions Even after adjusting for low birth weight, we found that higher levels of radiation were associated with poorer outcomes for cognitive domains of development such as problem solving, and personal-social areas. Thus, there is a need to monitor the neuro-development of children in whom the RF-EMF radiations are expected to be higher (such as very close to cell phone towers, too many gadgets in the house).

Excerpts

"In this cohort study, we found that mean ASQ scores were, in general, lower in the highest radiation tertile for all five domains; and specifically, significantly lower for the gross motor, fine motor, and problem-solving domains. Poor development outcomes (such as monitor/refer) for the fine motor, problem-solving, and personal-social domains were associated with higher levels of radiation in the house. In addition, low birth weight was also significantly associated with poor development outcomes for fine motor and problem-solving. Finally, even though mean scores for the social-emotional domain were high in the higher radiation groups, the difference was not statistically significant."

"There are potential limitations in the present analysis. In this study, the focus was on the association between the levels of electromagnetic field radiation and neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates and infants. Other studies have included prenatal cell phone use and exposure as the exposure variable; we did not include these in the present analysis. We also did not assess the parent-child interaction as another potential confounder. The EMF radiation in the house may not only be due to that from cell phone towers but also due to cordless phones, WiFi devices, and Bluetooth gadgets. Since we measured the radiation in the house, this would have included the EMF from all these. It is quite likely that a home far away from the tower may still have higher EMF radiation due to these gadgets. However, the measurement was only at baseline, and this may have led to some misclassification. As described earlier, some authors have not found an association between cell phone use, while others have found inconsistencies in the relationship. Most other authors have used other scales, such as the Bayley Scales of Infant Development or scales that were developed by the researcher. We have used the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, both for the developmental domain and the social-emotional domain. ASQ is useful for screening and not a diagnostic instrument. We also do not claim causality in these findings. These are interim results of the cohort, and we are still following the cohort. We intend to publish future results on the neurodevelopmental outcomes. These outcomes will include the Bayley Scales of Infant Development and the Stanford-Binet test for intelligence. We did not use any imputation methods for missing observations and just used the random effects models with available observations. Though we had enough power to detect the difference in scores, some of the events were few (particularly social-emotional and communication domains). Thus, we may be underpowered at this point of analysis for these outcomes. Nonetheless, actual measurement of RF-EMF radiation in the house (which represents the actual exposure levels), a cohort design, and the use of random effects logistic regression models are the potential strengths of the study. These models are useful for longitudinal data, and one additional advantage of random effects models is their use in longitudinal data when observations are present at different time points [42,43].

Conclusions

These preliminary findings are an important contribution to the literature on the association between RF-EMF radiation and neurodevelopment in neonates and infants. The results have to be interpreted taking into account the limitations that have been mentioned. We used random effects models, which account for both within-subject and between-subject correlation, and are useful for time-varying variables. These models are useful for longitudinal data where the outcomes may vary with each observation. Even after adjusting for low birth weight, we found that higher levels of radiation were associated with poorer outcomes for cognitive domains of development such as the problem-solving and personal-social areas. Low birth weight was associated with poorer outcomes for the motor development domains (gross motor and fine motor). It is quite likely that obvious gross motor delays may be identified by parents and caregivers; however, cognitive development domains require specialist monitoring. Thus, there may be a need to consider monitoring of neurodevelopmental outcomes in children in whom RF-EMF radiations are expected to be higher (such as very close to cell phone towers and too many gadgets in the house)."

Open access: https://www.cureus.com/articles/381425-radiofrequency-electromagnetic-field-emissions-and-neurodevelopmental-outcomes-in-infants-a-prospective-cohort-study#!/

A scoping review and evidence map of radiofrequency field exposure and genotoxicity: assessing in vivo, in vitro, and epidemiological data

Weller SG, McCredden JE, Leach V, Chu C, Lam AK-Y (2025) A scoping review and evidence map of radiofrequency field exposure and genotoxicity: assessing in vivo, in vitro, and epidemiological data. Front. Public Health 13:1613353. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1613353

Abstract

Background Studies investigating genotoxic effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure (3 kHz−300 GHz) have used a wide variety of parameters, and results have been inconsistent. A systematic mapping of existing research is necessary to identify emerging patterns and to inform future research and policy.

Methods Evidence mapping was conducted using guidance from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A comprehensive search strategy was applied across multiple research databases, using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria within each knowledge domain. Quantitative aggregation using tables, graphs and heat maps was used to synthesize data according to study type, organism type, exposure level and duration, biological markers (genotoxicity, cellular stress, apoptosis), RF-EMF signal characteristics, as well as funding source to further contextualize the evidence landscape. Quality criteria were applied as part of a focused analysis to explore potential biases and their effects on outcomes.

Results Over 500 pertinent studies were identified, categorized as in vitro (53%), in vivo (37%), and epidemiological (10%), and grouped according to type of DNA damage, organism, intensity, duration, signal characteristics, biological markers and funding source. In vitro studies predominantly showed proportionally fewer significant effects, while in vivo and epidemiological studies showed more. DNA base damage studies showed the highest proportion of effects, as did studies using GSM talk-mode, pulsed signals and real-world devices. A complex relationship was identified between exposure intensity and duration, with duration emerging as a critical determinant of outcomes. A complex U-shaped dose-response relationship was evident, suggesting adaptive cellular responses, with increased free radical production as a plausible mechanism. Higher-quality studies showed fewer significant effects; however, the funding source had a stronger influence on outcomes than study quality. Over half (58%) of studies observing DNA damage used exposures below the International Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) limits.

Conclusion The collective evidence reveals that RF-EMF exposures may be genotoxic and could pose a cancer risk. Exposure duration and real-world signals are the most important factors influencing genotoxicity, warranting further focused research. To address potential genotoxic risks, these findings support the adoption of precautionary measures alongside existing thermal-based exposure guidelines.

Implications for policy and practice

The evidence from the evidence map indicates that medium to long-term RF-EMF exposures, particularly at low intensities, can induce genetic damage through non-thermal mechanisms such as increased free radical production and oxidative stress. Genetic damage can have far-reaching, long-term, and potentially irreversible consequences for individual organisms and broader ecological and planetary health (112, 113).

Both In vivo and epidemiological RF-EMF studies provide credible evidence of genotoxicity, suggesting potential risks such as increased cancer susceptibility and reproductive harm. Studies on brain cells frequently reported positive findings for DNA damage, suggesting that brain cells may be particularly sensitive to RF-EMF, indicating a risk for neurological diseases and brain tumors, as observed in animal models (114–116).

Current RF-EMF exposure guidelines established by ICNIRP (15), prioritize the prevention of thermal effects by incorporating substantial safety margins (e.g., a 50-fold reduction from effect thresholds, setting a local SAR limit of 2 W/kg for the head and torso for the general public, averaged over 10 grams of tissue). However, the evidence mapping process found statistically significant DNA damage at extremely low intensities, with the lowest recorded effects occurring at a SAR of 0.000000319 W/kg in an epidemiological study (117) and at 0.000003 W/kg in several in vivo experiments (118, 119). These levels are substantially (>600,000 times) below the ICNIRP public exposure limits (15). This pattern suggests non-thermal genotoxic effects, because temperature changes at these intensities would be negligible and not measurable.

ICNIRP (2020) guidelines (15) set RF-EMF exposure limits to protect against thermal effects from acute exposures, with averaging times of 6 min for local exposure (head and torso) and 30 min for whole-body exposure. However, the above analysis revealed that medium (1 day−3 months) and long-term RF-EMF exposures (>3 months or 1,000 h) were most strongly linked to genotoxic effects, even at very low exposure intensities. ICNIRP (2020) guidelines (15) do not set specific limits for chronic, low-level RF-EMF exposures, particularly for non-thermal effects like genotoxicity, citing “no substantiated evidence of health-relevant effects” [(15), p. 522].

The mapping process also revealed that RF exposures are associated with genetic damage in a wide range of organisms, with an observed sensitivity of non-mammalian organisms, such as plants, insects, and possibly amphibians. Current guidelines neglect potential effects on wildlife or ecosystems (78, 96). Notably, a recent WHO-commissioned systematic review of animal studies suggested carcinogenic effects from RF-EMF exposures (116). Other studies suggest biological effects on non-human species (120, 121). Together, these results suggest that the environmental implications of RF-EMF exposure merit greater scrutiny (122), even though the current evidence remains limited and debated (96).

While these findings do not yet establish causation or a clear No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL), they indicate risks that ICNIRP's current framework discounts by prioritizing only effects with confirmed harm [(15), p. 487]. ICNIRP's review process and position is best described as a hazard-based assessment focused only on confirmed effects. This approach is overly restrictive, as it delays updating guidelines until absolute certainty is achieved (123), which may not align with the precautionary needs of public health or environmental protection.

Currently, there is a widespread (6) and often non-consensual nature to RF-EMF exposure (92) from mobile phones, base stations, and other wireless technologies. While acknowledging the permanence of this technology in modern society, policy adjustments are required that prioritize health and environmental protection over economic interests. This can be achieved by adopting a precautionary approach to RF-EMF (123) and addressing potential risks from non-thermal RF-EMF effects, despite scientific uncertainty. Strategies such as justification (assessing net benefits of RF-EMF applications), optimization (balancing protection with societal needs), and As low as Reasonably Achievable or As Low as Technically Achievable - ALARA/ALATA (avoiding deterministic effects and minimizing stochastic effects) per International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommendations - ICRP103 (124) could be considered. Further development and deployment of wireless technologies should incorporate improved safety measures in their design (125), such as creating devices that emit lower levels of RF-EMF or using materials and antenna designs to direct emissions away from the body.

Additionally, public information regarding potential health risks and personal protective measures could be disseminated through public health campaigns, making use of existing advice such as the EUROPAEM EMF Guideline 2016 (126); e.g. minimizing the use of wireless devices, prioritizing wired connections, maintaining distance between RF-EMF sources and the body, use of air-tube headsets or handsfree calls, turning off wireless when not in use, and mitigation of oxidative stress by incorporating antioxidants into the diet.

While individual actions are valuable, they are not a substitute for robust regulatory standards and industry accountability. Ensuring the safety of wireless technologies requires a collective effort from manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers to develop comprehensive RF safety guidelines. Future regulatory guidelines could encompass workplace protection measures, including substitution, engineering, and administrative controls (127), integration of building biology standards (128), mandatory detailed product labeling to inform users of potential risks, and standardized safety hygiene practices.

Recommended actions

To address these concerns and bridge existing gaps, the following actions are recommended:

Standardization of Research Protocols: Harmonizing methodologies across studies, particularly comet assay protocols, is critical for reducing heterogeneity and enabling robust meta-analyses.
Focus on Long-Term and Low-Intensity Exposures: Future research should prioritize investigating the cumulative effects of prolonged and low-intensity RF-EMF exposures, which are most relevant to real-world scenarios and devices.
Inclusion of Emerging Frequencies: Given the rapid deployment of 5G and other novel technologies, research focused on higher frequencies and new modulation schemes is urgently needed.
Targeted Environmental and Health Studies: Targeted research in both human health and ecological systems needs to be conducted independently of vested interest influences, ensuring methodological rigor in each domain.
Independent Funding and Research Oversight: To mitigate biases associated with industry funding, greater support for independent research is essential. Transparent disclosure of ALL funding sources and researcher affiliations should be mandatory.
Re-evaluation of RF Standards: Regulatory bodies must update exposure guidelines to reflect non-thermal mechanisms and the potential health effects from long-term chronic exposure settings by incorporating findings from independent, high-quality studies.

Conclusions

The evidence map presented here reveals statistically significant DNA damage in humans and animals resulting from man-made RF-EMF exposures, particularly DNA base damage and DNA strand breaks. The evidence also suggests plausible mechanistic pathways for DNA damage, most notably through increased free radical production and oxidative stress. Sensitivity to damage varied by cell type, with reproductive cells (testicular, sperm and ovarian) along with brain cells appearing particularly vulnerable. A complex U-shaped dose-response relationship was observed for both exposure duration and intensity, with more DNA damage occurring in specific frequency and intensity combination windows. DNA damage was more likely to be found using in vivo studies, very weak or very strong signal intensities, very short or very long exposure durations, 900, 1,800 and 2,450 MHz frequencies, GSM-talk mode and pulsed modulations, particularly when using real-world devices. On the other hand, research funded by vested interests has tended to use different experimental design parameters, with a high proportion of studies using in vitro, short-term exposures, medium-high intensity signals and using signal generators. Funding source is also a stronger determinant of experimental outcomes than study quality.

Overall, there is a strong evidence base showing DNA damage and potential biological mechanisms operating at intensity levels much lower than the ICNIRP recommended exposure limits. Public policy could benefit from the implementation of precautionary measures such as ALARA or ALATA, along with public information campaigns to better safeguard human and environmental health and wellbeing.

Open access: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1613353

Building the gulf of opinions on the health and biological effects of electromagnetic radiation

Paul Héroux. Building the gulf of opinions on the health and biological effects of electromagnetic radiation. Front. Public Health, 22 July 2025. Volume 13 - 2025 | doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1589021.

Using events that the author was personally involved with over many years, the article attempts to explain how different views solidified over time on the health effects of electromagnetic radiation, some believing they are negligible, while others believe they are substantial.

Introduction

The health impacts of Non-Thermal Electromagnetic Radiation, both in the ELF and RF domains, have been controversial since the early 1980s (1). The report of a link between childhood leukemia and ELF magnetic fields fueled discussion for more than a decade, ushering together two very different areas, electrical engineering and biology.

The arguments oppose the officers of industry and their followers to health environmentalists. Given that both should have access to the same scientific literature, the opposing positions rely on the selection of different experts, subsets of the literature, and on their interpretation

This article attempts to explain how different views on the health effects of technological electromagnetic radiation solidified over time, some believing they are negligible, while others propose they are substantial.

We skirt around classically reported events such as the development of the ANSI (21), IEEE (22) and ICNIRP (23) recommendations as well as the Bioinitiative report (24), the ORSAA (25) database, Henry Lai’s literature compilation (26), and the NTP (27) and Ramazzini (28) experiments to discuss other incidents that may seem minor but shed some light on the more human aspects of the formation of opinions about EMR health impacts.

To resolve the complex problem of EMR health impacts, several scientific meetings were held worldwide, seemingly to advance science and develop opinions.

We choose to report events where, over the years, the author was physically present; such direct experiences easily solidify into valuable memories. We think that assembling such recollections can be used to explain the development of diverging opinions on EMR health impacts.

Section headings

Adair, 1991

Armstrong, 1994

Lai, 1997

Phillips, 2009

Epilogue

The four examples above illustrate different aspects of the divergence of opinions. How are the basic terms of reference in the debate interpreted…are AC and DC fields in some ways equivalent (Adair)? Does the Specific Absorption Rate, a heat variable, provide more clarity than electric and magnetic fields? Should the engineering view of the problem smother its biological aspects? Can humans truly be simulated as a salt and sugar solution, as is done in SAR measurements? What of the issues of not pursuing challenging leads (Armstrong), pressuring the messengers of unwelcome observations (Lai) and undermining or underrating the techniques of biology (Phillips)?

In the recounts above, a leitmotiv is a divergent interpretation of the same facts according to personal education and employment. But control of the collective agenda in the public sphere is equally important, participation at scientific meetings by one group versus another can be strongly biased.

The issue of EMR health impacts was viewed as critical to industry interests at certain times, while for the bio-medical community it may have appeared less urgent.

So, was the industry justified in taking control of the debate and limiting it to heat, given that they had acute interests in the outcomes?

Was industry justified in publicizing its thermalist agenda through the IEEE with so many governments worldwide?

Was industry justified in controlling the evolution of EMR research, using its expertise in electromagnetism to dominate the area, while the most critical elements resided in biology and medicine?

The focus on ionization and thermal limits guaranteed peaceful outcomes for industry. The success of microwave ovens apparently crystallized a view of the human body as a dipole rather than a conductor, but this view may not be everlasting (20).

Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1589021/full

Impact of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields on Cardiac Activity at Rest: A Systematic Review of Healthy Human Studies

Michelant L, Selmaoui B. Impact of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields on Cardiac Activity at Rest: A Systematic Review of Healthy Human Studies. Bioelectromagnetics. 2025 Jul;46(5):e70014. doi: 10.1002/bem.70014.

Abstract

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure is increasingly prevalent, raising concerns about potential non-thermal health effects. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence regarding RF exposure effects on cardiac activity, focusing on heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). Studies on healthy individuals were selected based on strict methodological criteria, including experimental design, control for confounding variables, and sufficient details on exposure parameters. Articles were included if they compared healthy subjects with and without exposure and provided cardiac measurements, specific absorption rate, or exposure measurement. A total of 28 articles were analyzed. This review included studies with RF exposure ranging from 100 to 110,000 MHz and exposure durations varying from short periods to 7 nights, with most studies lasting between 5 and 50 min. Most studies demonstrated no significant effects of RF exposure on HR, regardless of the exposure system, frequency, duration, age, sex, distance, or subject position. Findings for HRV were more nuanced, with most studies indicating no significant impact on key HRV parameters. However, some position-dependent variations emerged, particularly in antenna-based studies. Additionally, our analysis suggests that RF exposure may particularly interfere with cardiac regulatory mechanisms when the cardiovascular system is challenged and required to adapt, such as during postural changes or physiological maneuvers, although there are insufficient comparable studies to validate this hypothesis. Importantly, all included studies were conducted under resting or non-stressful conditions and involved only healthy participants. Therefore, our conclusions cannot be generalized to stressed states or clinical populations. Moreover, methodological harmonization is needed to improve comparability across future studies. The main limitation of the current evidence being the heterogeneity of experimental protocols, highlighting the need for methodological standardization in future studies. To address current heterogeneity, we propose specific methodological recommendations, including systematic blinding, accurate exposure measurement and detailed exposure, to improve comparability and reproducibility in future studies.

Summary

Radiofrequency exposure under ICNIRP guidelines has no significant effect on heart rate across various exposure conditions at rest and for healthy subjects.
Findings related to heart rate variability are more nuanced; while most studies show no significant impact in calm conditions and for healthy subjects, some position-dependent variations have been observed, particularly in antenna-based studies.
RF exposure may modulate cardiac response during its physiological regulation, such as in the Valsalva maneuver or orthostatic test, and affect heart rate and variability in these cases, although limited studies prevent definitive conclusions.
Methodological standardization is necessary for future research.

Open access: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bem.70014

Men with genetic predisposition face greater fertility challenges when exposed to electromagnetic radiation

Pal S, Paladhi P, Dutta S, Ghosh P, Chattopadhyay R, Ghosh S. Men with genetic predisposition face greater fertility challenges when exposed to electromagnetic radiation. Mol Biol Rep. 2025 Jul 31;52(1):773. doi: 10.1007/s11033-025-10882-9.

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the synergistic effects of genetic variants in core meiotic regulator genes-SPO11, RNF212, and SYCP3-and co-occurring exposure to electronic radiation as risk factors for azoospermia among Bengali-speaking men from West Bengal, India.

Materials and methods: A total of 708 azoospermic individuals, who tested negative for Y chromosome microdeletions, and 640 healthy controls were genotyped using Sanger's dideoxy sequencing. Genetic variants identified included SPO11 rs3764674T > G, MN650122delA, MN708963insA, MN708964insA, MN720359T > A; RNF212 MN737491delA, rs4045481C > T; and SYCP3 rs10860779C > A, MN901901delA, and MN995822delA. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the interaction between genetic variants, electronic radiation exposure, and age, with fertility status as the outcome variable.

Results: The analysis revealed a significant association between genetic variations in meiotic regulators and increased risk of azoospermia, particularly among men aged 30 years or older who were exposed to electronic radiation. The findings suggest that effect of electronic radiation may exacerbate meiotic errors, impair germ cell development, and further reduce fertility in affected individuals.

Conclusions: Men carrying genetic variations in SPO11, RNF212, and SYCP3 and exposed to electronic radiation are at an elevated risk of azoospermia, particularly with advancing age. This information may be considered in routine screening of assisted reproductive technology (ART) practices, which will enable clinicians to tailor management strategies for male infertility.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40742570/

The modeling of the interaction of pulsed 5G/6G signals and the fine structure of human skin

Betzalel N, Feldman Y, Ben Ishai P. The modeling of the interaction of pulsed 5G/6G signals and the fine structure of human skin. Sci Rep 15, 28651 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-13777-8.

Abstract

Current regulations concerning the allowed levels of human exposure to electromagnetic radiation emanating from wireless technologies are governed by the Specific Absorption Rate standard (SAR). This allows the absorption by tissue of up to 2 W/kg averaged for 6 minutes in a 10 g cube of homogenized tissue. Much criticized, the SAR standard relates only to thermal effects. However, with the advent of 5G and 6G technologies, exploiting frequencies above 4 GHz, the traditional methods of SAR measurement are proving to be inadequate. This is made more poignant as carrier wavelengths approach the dimensions of tissue structures. We present a detailed electromagnetic simulation of human skin that not only accounts for the multi-layered structure of skin, but also sweat ducts, capillaric and arterial blood vessels. The results show an inhomogeneous absorption pattern that reflects the vessels and sweat glands involved. As human skin hosts an array of sensing structures, from nociceptors to thermoreceptors, as well as millions of innervated sweat glands, we point out that the current methods for gauging the SAR rating of devices are wholly inadequate and may lead to a gross underestimation skin electromagnetic absorption, and that nerve excitation should be accounted for in risk assessment.

External electromagnetic source

To emulate realistic source signals as used in real wireless devices nowadays, we have created a sinusoidal signal with carrier frequency of each frequency of our interest (3.5 GHz, 27 GHz, 77 GHz and 300 GHz). We have multiplied the sinusoidal wave with rect function with 30% duty cycle, and created a periodical train pulsed signal as described in 6.

Figure 12 shows the 77 GHz rectangular pulsed signal. The information frequency for that specific band in 1 GHz.

Conclusions

In this research we have demonstrated the EM vulnerability of skin components such as sweat ducts (its coiled section and sweat glans, in particular) and dermal blood vessels, which are ignored by standard regulation approval methods of wireless devices. We conclude that wireless and remote EM devices and applications, such as cellular phones, laptops, autonomous vehicles, smart cities etc. Working in the 5G bands and planned to be work in 6G bands, are not being treated correctly in terms of EM affects they might generate on humans. In our study, we see the vulnerability of the sweat gland and the coiled section of the gland, possessing almost an EM filter component, which filters in 5G and 6G frequencies (3.5, 27, 77 and 300 GHz) into the blood stream. Moreover, the peripheral area of the sweat gland also absorbs more electromagnetic energy (higher dosimetry) than its surrounding. 5G and 6G might pose unexpected risks to humans, due to the effect of energy dissipation to regulators, such as thermoreceptors or nociceptors, in the immediate vicinity of the sweat duct, with long- or short-term effects. We conclude that since human skin is a relatively complex organ, it cannot be treated as a homogeneous component when it interacts with millimeter waves and sub-THz frequencies.

Open access: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-13777-8

Exploring research trends in health effects of 5G antennas: a bibliometric analysis

Turgut A., Korunur Engiz B. (2025). Exploring research trends in health effects of 5G antennas: a bibliometric analysis. Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, 1–20. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2539147.

Abstract

To better understand the developments and trends of studies on the health impacts of 5th Generation (5 G) antennas, a bibliometric analysis of the literature published in the Web of Science database from 2012 to 2025 was conducted. Before the analysis, the dosimetric quantities “specific absorption rate (SAR)” and “power density (Sab)” used in the examination of the health impacts of antennas were thoroughly defined, and their required limits were provided. Subsequently, information visualization technology was utilized to investigate the yearly distribution of literature, author contributions and collaboration, productive and influential institutions and countries/territories, co-citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence. However, anticipated publication and citation numbers for the coming years (2025–2029) were predicted regarding the potential health impacts of 5 G antennas using artificial intelligence-assisted forecasting methods. There has been a considerable increase in studies related to health impacts measured by SAR and Sab dosimetric quantities over the last five years, in line with the number of articles published on 5 G antennas. Despite this, no bibliometric analysis has been done so far on the health impact of 5 G antennas below and above 6 GHz. The data presented in this bibliometric study to fill the gap on this subject will provide a better understanding of the health impacts and unique insights to offer good research guidance on 5 G antennas and their attributed adverse health impacts.

Plain Language Summary

This study explores research conducted on potential health effects related to 5G antennas. 5G is the latest wireless communication technology designed to increase internet speeds and connect more devices simultaneously. As 5G technology expands, antennas operating at different frequencies are being widely installed, raising public concerns about their safety and possible health impacts.

Our analysis covered studies from 2012 to 2025, examining how researchers measure human exposure to electromagnetic fields from these antennas, specifically focusing on two measures: Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for lower frequency antennas and Power Density (Sab) for higher frequency antennas. SAR indicates the rate at which electromagnetic energy is absorbed by body tissues per unit mass, while Sab represents the absorbed power density at the body’s surface.

Using advanced methods, we analyzed the growing body of research, highlighting key trends and major contributors in the field. We found a rapid increase in studies, driven by growing public interest and technological advances. Most research currently emphasizes smartphone antennas, but interest in wearable devices and health-monitoring technologies is rising.

Our findings emphasize the need for ongoing research into 5G’s health implications, providing guidance for future studies. The study helps policymakers, researchers, and the public understand the safety considerations surrounding 5G technology and encourages continued attention to health-related issues as the use of 5G continues to grow.

Table 4. Top 7 institutions with the most publications on the health impacts of 5 g antennas.
Rank	Institution	Country	TP	P	TLS	CPP	H
1	Ericsson	Sweden	17	4.381%	138	34.35	10
2	Sony Corporation	Japan	14	3.608%	98	31.14	8
3	University Teknikal Malaysia Melaka	Malaysia	13	3.351%	24	7.62	7
4	National Institute Of Technology (NIT) System	India	12	3.093%	2	4.58	4
5	Polytechnic University Of Milan	Italy	12	3.093%	28	7.08	6
6	Zhejiang University	China	12	3.093%	99	18.17	6
7	Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR)	Italy	11	2.835%	13	7.18	5

TP: Total Publications; P: Percentage (%); TLS: Total Link Strength; CPP: Citations Per Paper; H: h-index.

Conclusion

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research on 5 G antennas and their health impacts, mapping knowledge domains through visualization techniques. The findings indicate that as the deployment of 5 G networks expands, research on SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) and Power Density (Sab) will continue to grow, particularly with the increasing demand for human exposure assessments and safety regulations.

The AI-assisted prediction models applied in this study project a steady increase in research output and citations over the next three years, highlighting the importance of bioelectromagnetic safety and multidisciplinary collaborations in fields such as medicine, chemistry, and physics. This trend suggests a growing scientific and regulatory focus on the potential biological effects of 5 G radiation.

While bibliometric approaches provide valuable insights, they also present certain limitations. The accuracy and completeness of the dataset depend on database indexing and data retrieval methods. Additionally, preprocessing techniques for author and institutional name variations require further refinement to minimize errors. The study also highlights challenges in data visualization, particularly in overlapping clusters and network mapping, which may require advanced machine learning techniques for optimization.

Despite these limitations, the study offers a solid foundation for understanding the evolution of 5 G antenna research, particularly in the context of health risk assessments and SAR compliance studies. The findings emphasize the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure that future wireless communication technologies are both efficient and safe for public health.

These findings are further supported by AI-assisted forecasting, which projects stable research output through 2029, driven by ongoing interest in SAR and Sab-based exposure analysis. Current developments – such as increased focus on wearable antennas, improved EMF simulation methods, and regulatory initiatives – are expected to shape future research directions. The results also highlight the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration and refinement of data analysis techniques to better assess potential health effects of 5 G technologies.

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15368378.2025.2539147

Comparative Analysis of Beamforming Techniques and Beam Management in 5G Communication Systems

Andras CM, Barb G, Otesteanu M. Comparative Analysis of Beamforming Techniques and Beam Management in 5G Communication Systems. Sensors. 2025; 25(15):4619. doi: 10.3390/s25154619.

Abstract

The advance of 5G technology marks a significant evolution in wireless communications, characterized by ultra-high data rates, low latency, and massive connectivity across varied areas. A fundamental enabler of these capabilities is represented by beamforming, an advanced signal processing technique that focuses radio energy to a specific user equipment (UE), thereby enhancing signal quality—crucial for maximizing spectral efficiency. The work presents a classification of beamforming techniques, categorized according to the implementation within 5G New Radio (NR) architectures. Furthermore, the paper investigates beam management (BM) procedures, which are essential Layer 1 and Layer 2 mechanisms responsible for the dynamic configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of optimal beam pair links between gNodeBs and UEs. The article emphasizes the spectral spectrogram of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs) generated under various deployment scenarios, illustrating how parameters such as subcarrier spacing (SCS), frequency band, and the number of SSBs influence the spectral occupancy and synchronization performance. These insights provide a technical foundation for optimizing initial access and beam tracking in high-frequency 5G deployments, particularly within Frequency Range (FR2). Additionally, the versatility of 5G’s time-frequency structure is demonstrated by the spectrogram analysis of SSBs in a variety of deployment scenarios. These results provide insight into how different configurations affect the synchronization signals’ temporal and spectral occupancy, which directly affects initial access, cell identification, and energy efficiency.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/25/15/4619

Numerical Analysis of Human Head Exposure to Electromagnetic Radiation Due to 5G Mobile Phones

Chietera FP, Usmani WU, Caggiano D, Lamacchia C, Chimenti G, Mescia L. Numerical Analysis of Human Head Exposure to Electromagnetic Radiation Due to 5G Mobile Phones. 2025 10th International Conference on Smart and Sustainable Technologies (SpliTech), Bol and Split, Croatia, 2025, pp. 1-5, doi: 10.23919/SpliTech65624.2025.11091791.

Abstract

This paper investigates human exposure to electromagnetic fields from 5G mobile phones operating in the 26 GHz frequency band, recently designated for 5G mm-wave communications. Numerical simulations assess near-field exposure generated by a realistic mobile phone model and the thermal effects on a detailed head model, providing valuable insights into the potential impact of this emerging technology on human health.

Conclusion

A preliminary analysis conducted using a realistic head model with medium-resolution voxels suggests that 5G mm-wave communication in the 26 GHz band results in only moderate, localized thermal increases in superficial tissues. However, further investigations are necessary to better characterize the impact of prolonged exposure and higher spatial detail. Future simulations should consider higher-resolution voxel models, more refined tissue segmentation, and extended exposure durations. In addition, variable phone placements should be explored, as they can lead to higher incidence angles and higher peak irradiation levels in biological tissues.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=11091791&isnumber=11091382

Pilot questionnaire survey shows the lack of diagnostic criteria for electromagnetic hypersensitivity: a viewpoint

Leszczynski D. Pilot questionnaire survey shows the lack of diagnostic criteria for electromagnetic hypersensitivity: a viewpoint. MHealth. vol 11. Jul 14, 2025. doi: 10.21037/mhealth-25-4.

Abstract

Wireless communication devices and networks are currently prevalent in human environment. Some persons claim to be sensitive to emitted by them microwave radiation. Commonly, this sensitivity is called electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) or microwave disease. However, because of the yet scientifically unproven link between radiation exposures and EHS symptoms, this sensitivity is also called idiopathic environmental intolerance attributed to electromagnetic fields (IEI-EMF). The sensitivity is not recognized by the World Health Organization as a disease or as being caused by exposures to wireless radiation. There are no medical tests for detecting sensitivity to wireless radiation. Physicians are not being educated to deal with persons who claim to be sensitive to wireless radiation. However, some persons who consider themselves to be sensitive to wireless radiation exposures claim to have medical diagnoses made by physicians or other health professionals. This project looked at the contradiction of the lack of diagnostic criteria for sensitivity to wireless radiation with the medical diagnoses claimed by some of the self-declared sensitive persons. Analysis of questionnaire responses of 142 self-declared sensitive persons suggests that, currently, it is not possible to diagnose sensitivity to wireless radiation exposures. The claimed medical diagnoses appear to be based on the anecdotal evidence presented by the self-declared sensitive persons. In some cases, medical tests were used but these tests lacked scientific proof of their ability to detect the sensitivity of a person to wireless radiation exposure. The proof of the existence of sensitivity to wireless radiation remains inadequate. However, logically and by analogy to other environmental stressors, it is likely that individual sensitivity to wireless radiation exists. Because provocation studies in wireless radiation-exposed volunteers alone seem unable to provide definite answers, further research using both, provocation and biochemical methods with controlled wireless radiation exposures in volunteers is necessary to discover diagnostic biomarkers of EHS.

Table 1: Symptoms claimed to be caused by exposures to wireless radiation

• Skin problems: itching; eczema; getting acne; bad skin rash on the face; face gets hot; burning feeling on neck and thyroid area; creeping skin, like something is walking on it; feeling a tinkling on the forehead; red stripes on the skin of hands; skin of hands becoming very dry, splits and bleeds
• Nervousness feelings: exhaustion and fatigue; insomnia; feeling agitated; cardiac arrhythmia; pulsations in chest and heart; anxiousness; over activity; overstimulation; shaking or trembling; panic attacks; fear feeling; psychosis; suicidal thoughts; vertigo—the sensation that the environment around is moving or spinning; buzzing from the bottom of the feet; nervous tension throughout the body; pulsations in arms; restlessness; restless leg syndrome; tingling in fingers and toes; vibration feeling in the head, body, and pelvic area
• Digestive tract problems: belching; diarrhea; digestion problems; increased food sensitivities painful constipation; food intolerance to e.g., cow’s milk, eggs yeast, wheat, or gluten
• Brain functioning problems: brain fog; memory problems; problems with concentration; difficulty speaking/stuttering; disorientation; distorted sense of time and space; dizziness; drowsiness; nausea
• Effects on moving, seeing, hearing, breathing: difficulty walking; fuzzy vision; blurred vision; shimmering visual effects; easily lost balance; uncoordinated movements; tinnitus; hearing loss; hearing persistent hum; respiratory depression; shortness of breath; cough

Table 3: Some values of the blood tests of the self-declared EHS persons were elevated and some lower than the average levels

• Elevated: Cu, glucose, IgE, histamine, orotic acid, 3-methyl-glutaric, bacterial metabolites, fungal metabolites, glutaric acid, hippuric acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, homovanillic acid indicating elevated dopamine, methylmalonic acid (vitamin B12 deficiency), quinolinic acid, erythrocyte glutathione-S-transferase, serum glutathione-S-transferase, and blood sedimentation rate, high lactic acid, chronic acidosis
• Low: malic acid, 2-oxoglutaric acid, aconitic acid, serotonin, ratio of adrenalin/noradrenalin, blood sugar

EHS, electromagnetic hypersensitivity; IgE, immunoglobulin E.

Conclusions

Individual sensitivity of people to all kinds of environmental factors, natural and man-made, is common and, therefore, it is logical to consider that also individual sensitivity to man-made EMF exists, even if we still rely on anecdotal evidence from self-declared EHS persons and do not have sufficiently robust scientific proof of it.

Trust in each other is of paramount importance in such a type of survey study. Volunteers need to trust that the information they provide will be kept private and analyzed without bias. Scientists need to trust that volunteers provide honest and not exaggerated responses to all of the questions. Without such trust execution and analysis of such survey studies is very difficult.

The observations collected in this pilot questionnaire survey study show that currently, it is not possible to medically diagnose EHS as being a result of low-level wireless radiation exposures. It is possible that further development of the questionnaire might increase the likelihood of correct identification of EHS persons but, for the final confirmation of the EHS status, some physiological tests might be necessary. Currently, the medical diagnoses of EHS, claimed by some of the EHS persons, are based solely on the anecdotal evidence presented by the EHS person and, in rare cases, on tests that lack scientific proof of their validity as EHS diagnostic tools.

Further research on the causes of EHS and on the development of methods to diagnose it is necessary. However, it is necessary to keep in mind that the biomarkers of EHS might, or will likely, overlap with markers for other IEI-sensitivities or allergies. Future research studies should concomitantly examine both, physiological (12) and cognitive (30,31) responses of the human body to exposures to electromagnetic fields.

Open access: https://mhealth.amegroups.org/article/view/140469/html

Smartphone Usage Patterns and Sleep Behavior in Demographic Groups: Retrospective Observational Study

Wang T, Seiger A, Markowetz A, Andone I, Błaszkiewicz K, Penzel T. Smartphone Usage Patterns and Sleep Behavior in Demographic Groups: Retrospective Observational Study. J Med Internet Res 2025;27:e60423. doi: 10.2196/60423.

Abstract

Background: Although previous studies have examined the relationship between smartphone usage and sleep disorders, research on demographic differences in smartphone usage and nocturnal smartphone inactivity patterns remains limited. This study introduces “nocturnal smartphone inactivity duration” as a proxy indicator to address the limitation of lacking direct sleep data and to further investigate the association between smartphone usage patterns and sleep characteristics.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate demographic differences and relationships between daily smartphone usage and nocturnal smartphone inactivity patterns.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of data collected from the Murmuras app from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. A total of 1074 participants were included, categorized by gender, age, highest degree, employment status, and smartphone usage purpose. All participants consented to participate in the study through the app. To explore the relationship between smartphone usage and nocturnal smartphone inactivity, we first calculated each participant’s daily smartphone usage duration (including app usage) and duration of nocturnal smartphone inactivity; then, we assessed the normality and homogeneity of variance tests within each demographic category. Based on the results, the Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied to potentially identify differences between groups. Finally, correlation and regression analyses were conducted to explore associations between smartphone usage and nocturnal smartphone inactivity.

Results: The findings revealed distinct patterns of smartphone use across demographics. Participants predominantly used smartphones for social contact (average daily usage duration=1.52 h) and recreational activities (average daily usage duration=1.08 h) through apps like Facebook and YouTube. Frequent users, especially of social media and entertainment, often increased their phone usage at night. Female participants used their phones more frequently, mainly for digital shopping and social interactions, whereas male participants used phones more at nighttime (P<.001). Both younger users and non–full-time employees engaged more in activities such as gaming and chatting (P<.01 for those comparisons). Higher education was correlated with lower use (P<.001). Those using smartphones for work-related purposes generally decreased their phone usage after work (P<.05 for those comparisons). Correlation and regression analyses of smartphone usage duration and nighttime inactivity across groups indicated that only a small subset of groups exhibited significant positive correlations, a moderate number displayed significant negative correlations, and the majority showed no significant correlation.

Conclusions: This study underscores the significant association between demographic factors and smartphone usage patterns, including nocturnal inactivity patterns. Female individuals, young people, individuals with lower educational qualifications, and those who were unemployed demonstrated higher smartphone usage. Frequent engagement with social media and leisure apps was particularly pronounced during nighttime hours, a behavior that may contribute to disruptions in sleep patterns. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing excessive smartphone use, particularly at night, to mitigate its potential adverse effects on sleep.

Open access: https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e60423

Temporal change of outdoor RF-EMF levels in four European countries: a microenvironmental measurement study

Beláčková L, Veludo AF, Aminzadeh R, Van Bladel H, Griffon V, Cardis E, Dongus S, Eeftens M, Guxens M, Joseph W, de Llobet P, Mazet P, Van Torre P, Thielens A, Vermeulen R, Wiart J, Röösli M, Huss A. Temporal change of outdoor RF-EMF levels in four European countries: a microenvironmental measurement study. Environ Res. 2025 Jul 11;285(Pt 1):122315. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.122315.

Abstract

Introduction: Over the past two decades, the amount of transmitted mobile data has increased rapidly. It is unknown whether the implementation of the new technologies enabling this has resulted in changes of outdoor radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure. Therefore, microenvironmental measurements were used to investigate temporal trends in RF-EMF exposure between 2016 and 2023, in the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and Spain, following a similar protocol across campaigns. Microenvironmental measurements refer to exposure measurements performed at predefined small areas that have been differentiated with a specific function in that particular area. This allowed us to compare exposure trends between countries and years.

Methods: The data was collected as part of the ACCEDERA (2016-2018), ETAIN (2023), and GOLIAT (2023) projects, walking repeatedly the same routes with RF-EMF exposimeters. Identical microenvironments were identified in each country and measurements of the exposure from mobile base stations, mobile phones and the total exposure were compared across years.

Results: Comparing measurements between 6 and 14 unique microenvironments in each country, our data did not suggest significant changes in the exposure from the mobile base station origin (total downlink exposure) between baseline measurements in 2016 to follow up and 2023 for the four countries. Across all countries and years the median values of the mobile base station exposure ranged from 0.11 mW/m2 (Switzerland, 2023) to 0.62 mW/m2 (Netherlands, 2018). There was no consistent trend in the individual microenvironments across the countries.

Conclusions: Our measurements of RF-EMF outdoor exposure levels across included microenvironment groups do not indicate change in exposure levels between 2016 and 2023 despite an increase in mobile data traffic by a factor of 8 in Western Europe¹.

Open access: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001393512501566X?via%3Dihub

Assessment of Electromagnetic Exposure to a Child and a Pregnant Woman Inside an Elevator in Mobile Frequencies

Karatsi I, Bakogianni S, Koulouridis S. Assessment of Electromagnetic Exposure to a Child and a Pregnant Woman Inside an Elevator in Mobile Frequencies. Telecom. 2025; 6(3):52. doi: 10.3390/telecom6030052.

Abstract

This study presents an in-depth dosimetry analysis of energy assimilation from EM waves and increase in the temperature during mobile phone usage within an elevator cabin. The cellphone operates at two different frequencies (1000 MHz and 1800 MHz) and is simulated at three different talk positions vertical, tilt, and cheek. Realistic numerical models of a woman in the third trimester of pregnancy and a girl at the age of 5 years are employed. The analysis highlights the necessity of a comprehensive approach to fully grasp the complexities of EM exposure.

Conclusions

A comprehensive investigation into electromagnetic (EM) exposure and thermal safety has been conducted, focusing on three distinct subjects: a girl of five years named Roberta, a gestating female at seven months gestation known as Pregnant II, and her fetus. This study employed anatomically precise computational virtual humans along with a cellular device functioning at two different frequency bands, 1000 MHz and 1800 MHz. A total of 48 separate arrangements involving these numerical phantoms in various configurations and with different phone orientations were meticulously analyzed. The study presented detailed results of SAR10g, SAR-wb, and Tmax for every anatomical virtual human, including the fetus within the confines of an elevator cabin. The results here add to the findings in our prior work [55]. Here, contrary to [55], we examined how exactly, and in which scale, the positioning of the humans affects the quantities measured for all the utilized models, including the seven-month fetus.

Notably, it becomes evident that an integrated approach is essential to fully understand the complexities of EM exposure. Each configuration offers unique insights into how specific absorption rate values and temperature rises differ across subjects and settings. The variations observed underscore the necessity of examining every possible configuration to draw comprehensive conclusions about EM safety.

Moreover, the investigation highlights the importance of further exploring the effects of EM exposure in elevator cabins under various occupancy conditions and at different portable device frequencies. Such studies are crucial for developing targeted safety guidelines and protective measures, particularly in environments where RF exposure is compounded by enclosed spaces like elevators. This research not only enhances our understanding of EM field interactions with human tissues but also aids in the formulation of better health and safety standards for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4001/6/3/52

Comparison Between Broadband and Personal Exposimeter Measurements for EMF Exposure Map Development Using Evolutionary Programming

Nájera A, Sánchez-Montero R, González-Rubio J, Guillén-Pina J, Chocano-del-Cerro R, López-Espí P-L. Comparison Between Broadband and Personal Exposimeter Measurements for EMF Exposure Map Development Using Evolutionary Programming. Applied Sciences. 2025; 15(13):7471. doi: 10.3390/app15137471.

Abstract

In this study, we provide a comparison of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure level maps as determined using two approaches: a broadband meter (NARDA EMR-300) equipped with an isotropic probe in the range of 100 kHz to 3 GHz, and a Personal Exposimeter (Satimo EME Spy 140) in the range of 88 MHz to 5.8 GHz. The aim of this research was to determine the necessary adjustments to the measurements made with personal exposimeters to obtain RF-EMF exposure maps equivalent to those made with broadband meters. We evaluated different possibilities to obtain the best equivalence of measurements between both devices. For this purpose, the datasets obtained in both cases were analyzed, as well as the possible correction factors. First, the possibility of establishing a single or double correction factor depending on the existence (or lack thereof) of a line of sight with respect to the base stations was analyzed by minimizing the average value of the error between the values of the broadband meter and the corrected values of the personal exposure meter. Due to the differences observed in the exposure maps, a second procedure was carried out, in which a genetic algorithm was used to determine the ratio between the measurements from both methods (the broadband meter and personal exposure meter), depending on the existence (or lack thereof) of a line of sight, and we compared the exposure maps generated using kriging interpolation.

Conclusions

We conclude that exposure assessments based on spot measurements can serve as a practical proxy to evaluate personal RF-EMF exposure, whether using a static probe or a portable PEM. The developed methodology offers a reliable and efficient approach to characterizing personal exposure levels, enabling continuous monitoring and the detection of potential changes over time. The result of the different proportionality factors obtained is shown in Table 4.

The application of correction factors, particularly the differentiation between LOS and NLOS conditions, significantly improves the accuracy of PEM measurements, bringing them closer to those obtained with BBMs. This highlights the importance of accounting for the line of sight to antennas when estimating exposure levels, as direct exposure to base stations considerably affects measurement accuracy due to body shielding effects. By applying appropriate correction factors, the inherent limitations of PEMs, such as underestimating exposure levels in LOS conditions, can be mitigated.

Moreover, using genetic algorithms to optimize these corrections further enhances the precision of the exposure maps, demonstrating that this method can be a valuable tool in urban RF-EMF monitoring. The ability to generate accurate spatial exposure distributions through PEMs makes this methodology more accessible and cost effective, especially in large-scale studies where deploying multiple BBMs might not be feasible.

Nevertheless, further validation is needed in various environments to refine the correction models and ensure broader applicability. Future studies should focus on refining these algorithms and exploring other factors that could influence exposure, such as linearity, urban infrastructure, and signal interference. Despite these challenges, the methodology developed in this study represents a significant advancement in RF-EMF exposure assessment, offering a flexible and scalable approach to creating consistent EMF exposure maps using PEMs.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/13/7471

Machine Learning Approach for Ground-Level Estimation of Electromagnetic Radiation in the Near Field of 5G Base Stations

Famoriji OJ, Shongwe T. Machine Learning Approach for Ground-Level Estimation of Electromagnetic Radiation in the Near Field of 5G Base Stations. Applied Sciences. 2025; 15(13):7302. doi: 10.3390/app15137302.

Abstract

Electromagnetic radiation measurement and management emerge as crucial factors in the economical deployment of fifth-generation (5G) infrastructure, as the new 5G network emerges as a network of services. By installing many base stations in strategic locations that operate in the millimeter-wave range, 5G services are able to meet serious demands for bandwidth. To evaluate the ground-plane radiation level of electromagnetics close to 5G base stations, we propose a unique machine-learning-based approach. Because a machine learning algorithm is trained by utilizing data obtained from numerous 5G base stations, it exhibits the capability to estimate the strength of the electric field effectively at every point of arbitrary radiation, while the base station generates a network and serves various numbers of 5G terminals running in different modes of service. The model requires different numbers of inputs, including the antenna’s transmit power, antenna gain, terminal service modes, number of 5G terminals, distance between the 5G terminals and 5G base station, and environmental complexity. Based on experimental data, the estimation method is both feasible and effective; the machine learning model’s mean absolute percentage error is about 5.89%. The degree of correctness shows how dependable the developed technique is. In addition, the developed approach is less expensive when compared to measurements taken on-site. The results of the estimates can be used to save test costs and offer useful guidelines for choosing the best location, which will make 5G base station electromagnetic radiation management or radio wave coverage optimization easier.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/13/7302

Cluster Analysis of RF-EMF Exposure to Detect Time Patterns in Urban Environment: A Model-Based Approach

Pasquino N, Solmonte N, Djuric N, Kljajic D, Djuric S. Cluster Analysis of RF-EMF Exposure to Detect Time Patterns in Urban Environment: A Model-Based Approach. IEEE Access, vol. 13, pp. 118724-118732, 2025, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3586905.

Abstract

The increase in human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), driven by advancements in telecommunication systems like the 5G mobile system, highlights the need for continuous EMF monitoring. Advanced techniques for data analysis, based on machine learning like clustering, can decompose daily variations in EMF exposure into distinct patterns, providing a clearer understanding of how exposure fluctuates over time. Although several exposure monitoring systems exist in Europe, only a few studies have thoroughly examined the time variability. This study addresses the gap by applying model-based clustering techniques to analyze the temporal patterns. Specifically, the study focuses on characterizing fluctuations in field strength during workdays and holidays, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of time-distributed exposure. Continuous monitoring data, collected through the Serbian EMF RATEL network’s sensors installed in Novi Sad, were processed and analyzed using the Log-Normal Mixture Model (LNMM), a model-based clustering algorithm resorting to mixture distributions. The analyses reveal that the LNMM can separate night and day exposure values and identify periods when values persist longer over the day. This suggests that model-based clustering can be useful for understanding the temporal patterns of local EMF exposure.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=11072665&isnumber=10820123

Impact of Anthropomorphic Shape and Skin Stratification on Absorbed Power Density in mmWaves Exposure Scenarios

Gallucci S, Benini M, Bonato M, Galletta V, Chiaramello E, Fiocchi S, Tognola G, Parazzini M. Impact of Anthropomorphic Shape and Skin Stratification on Absorbed Power Density in mmWaves Exposure Scenarios. Sensors (Basel). 2025 Jul 17;25(14):4461. doi: 10.3390/s25144461.

Abstract

As data exchange demands increase also in widespread wearable technologies, transitioning to higher bandwidths and mmWave frequencies (30-300 GHz) is essential. This shift raises concerns about RF exposure. At such high frequencies, the most crucial human tissue for RF power absorption is the skin, since EMF penetration is superficial. It becomes thus very important to assess how the model used to represent the skin in numerical dosimetry studies affects the estimated level of absorbed power. The present study, for the first time, assesses the absorbed power density (APD) using FDTD simulations on two realistic human models in which: (i) the skin has a two-layer structure made of the stratum corneum and the viable epidermis and dermis layers, and (ii) the skin is modelled as a homogeneous dermis stratum. These results were compared with ones using flat phantom models, with and without the stratified skin. The exposure assessment study was performed with two sources (a wearable patch antenna and a plane wave) tuned to 28 GHz. For the wearable antenna, the results evidence that the exposure levels obtained when using the homogeneous version of the models are always lower than the levels in the stratified skin version with percentage differences from 16% to 30%. This trend is more noticeable with the female model. In the case of plane wave exposure, these differences were less pronounced and lower than 11%.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/25/14/4461

Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Biological Systems Mediated through the Radical Pair Mechanism

Gerhards L, Deser A, Kattnig DR, Jörg Matysik J, Solov’yov IA. Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Biological Systems Mediated through the Radical Pair Mechanism. Chemical Reviews. July 14, 2025. doi: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5c00178.

Abstract

The widespread use of radiofrequency (RF) communication has increased the exposure of organisms to electromagnetic fields, sparking a debate over the potential health effects of weak RF electromagnetic fields. While some experimental studies suggest that low-amplitude RF radiation may influence cellular metabolism or sleep patterns or even promote cancer, these claims remain controversial due to limited theoretical plausibility. Central to this debate is the radical pair mechanism (RPM), a quantum-mechanical framework proposed to mediate RF effects. Despite its role in magnetoreception and various magnetic field effects on chemical reactions, the RPM often fails to align with observations at low, nonthermal RF field strengths. This review examines these contrasting perspectives by discussing experimental findings and theoretical models that aim to explain putative biological effects of RF magnetic fields. Emphasis is placed on the challenges of reconciling theoretical predictions with empirical data, particularly in the context of weak RF exposure. Additionally, an overview of the theoretical framework used in current modeling efforts highlights the complexity of applying the RPM to biological systems and underscores the importance of critical interpretation. The goal is to clarify the state of understanding and inform future research on RPM-mediated biological effects under weak RF exposure.

Concluding Remarks

This review provides a detailed overview of the current state of research on weak RF-MF-induced biological effects in the context of the RPM. While several experimental studies suggest observable effects, their reproducibility and dosimetry remain significantly challenging. The RPM is frequently proposed as a mechanistic explanation, yet current theoretical models based on spin dynamics often struggle to fully account for experimental findings.

As demonstrated, accurately modeling the RPM is nontrivial, requiring consideration of multiple interactions and features. Essential interactions, such as spin–orbit coupling or dipolar coupling, are often overlooked in studies of potential MFEs. Additionally, decoherence due to spin relaxation and the short lifetimes of SCRPs impose further limitations on the detectability of weak RF-MF effects.

Despite these challenges, this review highlights a clear need for more systematic and interdisciplinary investigations. Experimental studies require robust statistical designs, standardized

methodologies, and improved dosimetry to enhance reproducibility. Meanwhile, theoretical approaches must incorporate the full complexity of spin dynamics beyond simplified models.

Advances such as the SSE method offer promising directions to overcome current limitations.

Ultimately, bridging the gap between experiment and theory will be key to unraveling the role of the RPM in weak RF-MF effects. Future research integrating rigorous theoretical frameworks with high-quality experimental data will be essential to clarify whether and how weak RF fields influence biological systems.

Open access: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.chemrev.5c00178

Magnetic Field Measurement of Various Types of Vehicles, Including Electric Vehicles

My note: The "reference levels" recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) for public exposure are no assurance of safety.

Fukui H, Minami N, Tanezaki M, Muroya S, Ohkubo C. Magnetic Field Measurement of Various Types of Vehicles, Including Electric Vehicles. Electronics. 2025; 14(15):2936. doi: 10.3390/electronics14152936.

Abstract

Since around the year 2000, following the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) to the market, some people have expressed concerns about the level of magnetic flux density (MFD) inside vehicles. In 2013, we reported the results of MFD measurements for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). However, those 2013 measurements were conducted using a chassis dynamometer, and no measurements were taken during actual driving. In recent years, with the rapid global spread of EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), the international standard IEC 62764-1:2022, which defines methods for measuring magnetic fields (MF) in vehicles, has been issued. In response, and for the first time, we conducted new MF measurements on current Japanese vehicle models in accordance with the international standard IEC 62764-1:2022, identifying the MFD levels and their sources at various positions within EVs, PHEVs, and ICEVs. The measured MFD values in all vehicle types were below the reference levels recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) for public exposure. Furthermore, we performed comparative measurements with the MF data obtained in 2013 and confirmed that the MF levels remained similar. These findings are expected to provide valuable insights for risk communication with the public regarding electromagnetic fields, particularly for those concerned about MF exposure inside electrified vehicles.

Conclusions

As the adoption of EVs and PHEVs increases, public concern about MFs from these vehicles has also grown. Narrowing the perception gap between scientific risk assessments and public anxiety is essential for effective risk communication. In this study, we conducted measurements of MFs emitted by domestic vehicles in Japan using IEC 62764-1:2022 methods and were able to provide reliable and easily accessible data to the public as a basis for risk communication.

The results confirmed that the measured MFs comply with ICNIRP guidelines and remain at levels that do not cause known acute adverse effects, such as nerve stimulation. The locations and characteristics of the maximum MF strengths for EVs, PHEVs, and ICEVs were identified.

For EVs and PHEVs, the highest MF values were observed on the rear seat at a 6.5 cm measurement distance, while for ICEVs, the maximum was recorded at the driver’s side dashboard at 20 cm. Among the vehicle types, PHEVs showed the highest MF levels, followed by ICEVs, which had higher values than EVs.

As a result of the frequency analysis, both speed-dependent and speed-independent MF components were detected across all vehicle types. Speed-dependent peaks included 6–29 Hz frequency components near the front seats, attributed to magnetized tires. Fixed-frequency peaks included a 294 Hz component observed during air conditioner operation. Low-frequency peaks around 1 Hz were observed near wiring routes around the rear seat area and were attributed to current flow during vehicle operation, with notably higher values in the PHEV during deceleration. In ICE vehicles, low-frequency components in the 1–5 Hz range were associated with wiper motor operation, while higher-frequency peaks at 847 Hz and 1268 Hz were detected but could not be clearly linked to specific sources.

A comparison with a previous study conducted in 2013 revealed that the MF levels are comparable to those of current vehicles as of 2025.

A comparison with the MF measurement results from Seibersdorf Laboratory in Austria revealed that their reported values were significantly higher. This difference is attributed to their capturing of rapid increases in MFD due to transient phenomena occurring on timescales below 200 ms, which were not considered in this study, and reflects differences in measurement conditions.

These findings are expected to provide valuable insights for risk communication with the general public regarding EMFs, particularly for those concerned about MF exposure inside electrified vehicles.

As a future perspective, as the performance of EVs continues to improve each year, with increases in motor output and battery capacity, exposure to MFs is expected to rise. Therefore, it is important to continue publishing measurement results regularly in the future.

This study focused on the vehicle itself and did not include measurements of the charging equipment. Wireless charging systems are being developed as an emerging technology [27,28,29,30,31], and demonstration experiments are currently underway in Japan. As their adoption is expected to increase in the future, opportunities for risk communication with the general public are likely to grow. It is therefore important to conduct MF exposure measurements in line with public road deployment and to advance risk communication accordingly.

In addition to passenger cars, the electrification of other vehicles such as buses is advancing, and the introduction of new mobility technologies, including the construction of linear motor cars, is expected to progress in the future. As such technologies are introduced, public concern about EMF exposure is likely to increase. Therefore, it is important to consider conducting measurements in line with the pace of their deployment.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9292/14/15/2936

Analysis of Human Exposure to Electric and Magnetic Fields While Charging and Driving an Electric Vehicle

Gliga, M. et al. (2025). Analysis of Human Exposure to Electric and Magnetic Fields While Charging and Driving an Electric Vehicle. In: Vlad, S., Roman, N.M. (eds) 9th International Conference on Advancements of Medicine and Health Care Through Technology. MEDITECH 2024. IFMBE Proceedings, vol 130. Springer, Cham. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-95671-3_25

Abstract

The transition to electric vehicles is a promising strategy to reduce or eliminate harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, from internal combustion vehicles. While electric vehicles offer environmental benefits, their operation involves the generation of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in their immediate vicinity. Although the biological effects of EMFs have been extensively studied, the specific health risks to humans remain uncertain.

In electric vehicles, occupants are exposed to artificial EMFs due to their close proximity to high-capacity electrical systems operating for extended periods. Recognizing these potential concerns, electric vehicle manufacturers have incorporated various technological solutions during the design and manufacturing processes to mitigate EMF exposure. This study will conduct experimental measurements of the electromagnetic field generated by an electric vehicle under a range of operational conditions.

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-95671-3_25

Standards: Exposure Limits for Brief High Intensity Pulses of Radiofrequency Energy Between 6 and 300 GHz

K. R. Foster, I. Laakso and Q. Balzano, "Standards: Exposure Limits for Brief High Intensity Pulses of Radiofrequency Energy Between 6 and 300 GHz," in IEEE Access, vol. 13, pp. 134648-134654, 2025, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3592532.

Abstract

This Standards paper considers limits of the International Commission on Nonionizing Radiation (ICNIRP) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE C95.1-2019) on “brief exposures” to radiofrequency energy (RF-EMF), that vary significantly within the 6 minute averaging time specified in the limits. This situation arises in two important contexts: exposures from cellular base stations employing Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antennas with beamforming that sweep beams around the service area, and exposure to pulsed RF-EMF with high peak power but low duty cycle. The ICNIRP and IEEE limits on brief exposures between 6 and 300 GHz are assessed using numerical and analytical solutions to a one-dimensional thermal model of tissue. Analysis is done both for rectangular pulses of RF-EMF (i.e., the step response to a suddenly imposed RF-EMF field), and to impulses of RF-EMF energy. The analysis shows that both sets of guidelines are uneven in the level of protection they offer against excessive transient heating of skin, with the IEEE limits being far more conservative than the ICNIRP limits. The thermal model suggests a simple modification to the pulse fluence limits that provides a more consistent level of protection against excessive temperature increases for pulses of varying duration and frequency. The Standards Paper does not consider possible nonthermal hazards or possible thermoacoustic effects produced by brief but very high amplitude RF-EMF pulses that produce high rates of change of tissue temperature but small temperature increases. The conclusion points to the need for further research and development to establish and refine exposure limits for pulsed RF-EMF.

Open access: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/11095721

Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Biological Systems Mediated through the Radical Pair Mechanism

Luca Gerhards, Andreas Deser, Daniel R. Kattnig, Jörg Matysik, and Ilia A. Solov’yov. Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Biological Systems Mediated through the Radical Pair Mechanism. Chemical Reviews. doi: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5c00178

Abstract

Open access: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.chemrev.5c00178

Effect of the radiation emitted from a cell phone on T lymphocytes in mice

Pei, Y., Gao, H., Li, J., Li, J., Hou, Z., & Han, X. (2025). Effect of the radiation emitted from a cell phone on T lymphocytes in mice. Radiation Effects and Defects in Solids, 1–13. doi: 10.1080/10420150.2025.2526402

Abstract

This present study aims to explore the potential impact of cell phone radiation on T lymphocytes in mice. One hundred twenty-eight healthy male BALB/C mice (2–3 weeks old) were randomly distributed into four groups: blank control, control, TD-SCDMA and LTE-Advanced groups, respectively, with 32 mice in each group. Mice were exposed to phone radiation for 2–8 weeks. 8 mice in each group were taken out for measurement, and given exposure periods were 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks, respectively. Flow cytometry was performed for the examination of T lymphocyte subsets, molecular and cell biological techniques were carried out to detect the apoptosis and transformation of T lymphocytes, respectively, while the enzyme-labelled immune technique was conducted to measure the cytokines secreted by T lymphocytes. The results showed that the percentage of CD4 T lymphocyte subsets was similar among the 4 groups during the entire exposure period, and so were the CD8 T lymphocyte subsets. Compared to the 2 sham groups, the apoptosis ratios of T lymphocytes in the TD-SCDMA and LTE-Advanced groups increased significantly after more than six weeks of exposure, while the transformation rates decreased significantly. The impacts of radiation on apoptosis and transformation are time-dependent. The concentrations of IL-10 and IL-12 remained unchanged in the 2 control groups during the entire experimental period. Compared to the 2 control groups, the concentrations of IL-10 in the 2 exposure groups decreased significantly, while the concentrations of IL-12 increased statistically. Furthermore, the decrease in IL-10 lagged behind the increase in IL-12. Therefore, it could be deduced that radiation from mobile phones resulted in T lymphocyte injury, and this adverse effect was seemingly more severe as the radiation exposure continued. Additionally, cell phone radiation was seen to suppress the secretion of IL-10 while enhancing the production of IL-12.

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10420150.2025.2526402

Genotoxic and histopathological effects of 6 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on rat liver tissue

Ilgaz NS, Karamazı Y, Emre M, Toyran T, Karaoğlan Ö, Emre T, Dönmez Kutlu M, Öksüz Üçkayabaşı H, Aydın Ç, Yılmaz MB. Genotoxic and histopathological effects of 6 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on rat liver tissue. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Jul 22:1-12. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2534381.

Abstract

In this study, the genotoxic and histopathological effects of 6 GHz (0.065 W/kg) Radiofrequency-Electromagnetic Radiation (RF-EMR) on rat liver tissue were investigated. Sham (control) and Radiofrequency Radiation (RFR) groups were formed with 10 adult male rats in each group. Rats in the sham group received no treatment. Rats in the RFR group were exposed to 6 GHz RF-EMR for 4 h/day for 42 days. Immediately after the completion of the exposure, the rats in both groups were sacrificed and liver tissues were removed. Comet Test was performed to determine the genotoxic effect in the samples. Masson Trichrome and Hematoxylin Eosin staining methods were applied histopathologically. According to the Comet Analysis results, the genetic damage index (GDI) and damaged cell percentage (DCP) of the RFR group were higher than the sham group, but this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In histopathologic examinations, portal inflammation, single cell necrosis, vascularity and congestion were more prominent in the RFR group compared to the sham group. In our study, it was shown that 6 GHz RF-EMR can cause histopathologic and DNA level changes in rat liver tissue. As a result of the literature review, no prior studies have specifically examined the genotoxic and histopathological effects of 6 GHz RF-EMR. This makes our study important as it addresses the biological impacts of the 6 GHz frequency band.

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15368378.2025.2534381

Single-cell analysis reveals the spatiotemporal effects of long-term electromagnetic field exposure on the liver

Zhang M, Lv Z, Zhao L, Zeng Q, Wu Y, Zhou J, Xi J, Pei X, Wang H, Li C, Yue W. Single-cell analysis reveals the spatiotemporal effects of long-term electromagnetic field exposure on the liver. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2025 Jun 27;13:1579121. doi: 10.3389/fcell.2025.1579121.

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial electromagnetic fields (EMFs) can impair the functions of several organs. The impact of long-term artificial EMF on the liver, the synthetic and metabolic center of the body, has become concerning. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the effect of long-term EMF exposure on the liver.

Methods: Mice were exposed to 2.45 GHz EMF daily for up to 5 months, and serum liver function test, lipidomic analysis, and histological analysis were performed to detect the general impact of EMF on the liver. Furthermore, EMF-induced liver transcriptome variations were investigated using single-cell RNA sequencing and a spatiotemporally resolved analysis.

Results: Different hepatic cells exhibited diverse sensitivities and response patterns. Notably, hepatocytes, endothelial cells, and monocytes showed higher sensitivity to electromagnetic radiation, with their lipid metabolic functions, immune regulation functions, and intrinsic functions disturbed, respectively. Moreover, transcriptomic alterations were predominantly observed in the hepatocytes and endothelial cells in peri-portal regions, suggesting a zonation-related sensitivity to EMF within the liver.

Conclusion: Our study provided a spatiotemporal visualization of EMF-induced alterations in hepatic cells, which ultimately elucidated the biological effects of EMF exposure.

Open access: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cell-and-developmental-biology/articles/10.3389/fcell.2025.1579121/full

Effects of coenzyme Q10 on sperm parameters and pathological changes induced by Wi-Fi waves in the testicular tissue of rats

Safaeinezhad, Ali et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 on sperm parameters and pathological changes induced by Wi-Fi waves in the testicular tissue of rats. Annals of Medicine & Surgery 87(7):p 4073-4079, July 2025. | doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000003340

Abstract

Background:  Despite safety boundaries set by authorities, there is public concern about the health effects of wireless communication tools using radiofrequency. The World Health Organization has advised further research in this area.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on sperm parameters and pathological changes in the testicular tissue in rats.

Methods:  Twenty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 5). The first group was kept in a Wi-Fi-free environment for 2 months. The second group was exposed to Wi-Fi waves for 7 h a day for 2 months. The third group was exposed to Wi-Fi waves for 7 h a day for 2 months and received 150 mg/kg of CoQ10 daily. The fourth group was not exposed to Wi-Fi waves but received 150 mg/kg of CoQ10 daily. Serum testosterone levels, sperm parameters, and pathological findings of testis and epididymis were investigated.

Results:  Treatment with CoQ10 (150 mg/day) resulted in a significant increase in sperm concentration from baseline, viability, and motility compared with the Wi-Fi group. CoQ10 therapy also increased testosterone levels compared with the Wi-Fi group. The pathology findings showed that in the treatment with CoQ10, fewer tubes had stopped the process of spermatogenesis due to Wi-Fi.

Conclusion:  The study results indicated that the intake of CoQ10 can reduce the complications caused by Wi-Fi on sperm parameters, testosterone levels, and pathological findings.

Open access: https://journals.lww.com/annals-of-medicine-and-surgery/fulltext/2025/07000/effects_of_coenzyme_q10_on_sperm_parameters_and.16.aspx

A Prolonged exposure to Wi-Fi Radiation Induces Neurobehavioral Changes and Oxidative Stress in Adult Zebrafish

Swati Fumakiya, Jahnavi Mehta, Aditi Punekar, Payal Sharma, Gowri Kumari Uggini. A Prolonged exposure to Wi-Fi Radiation Induces Neurobehavioral Changes and Oxidative Stress in Adult Zebrafish. International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research. 7(4): July-August 2025. doi: 10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.52286.

Abstract

The rapid development and use of wireless technologies have raised concerns about the possible harmful effects of long-term exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Wi-Fi routers are the most commonly used devices at households, offices, hotels, hospitals, airports, train stations etc., to provide wireless internet access to multiple devices. Therefore, prolonged exposure to EMR warrants thorough scientific investigation and risk assessment. Herein, we evaluated the impact of 2.45GHz Wi-Fi radiation exposure for 4 hours daily over a consecutive 30-day period on neurobehavioral and brain oxidative stress parameters in adult zebrafish. Post-exposure assessments revealed significant neurobehavioral impairments, altered locomotion, decreased neurotransmitter levels (AChE), and increased oxidative stress. Further studies are needed to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved and to assess the broader implications for vertebrate neurobiology and public health.

Open access: https://www.ijfmr.com/research-paper.php?id=52286

Investigation of the Effects of 2.45 GHz Near-Field EMF on Yeast

Angelova B, Paunov M, Kitanova M, Atanasova G, Atanasov N. Investigation of the Effects of 2.45 GHz Near-Field EMF on Yeast. Antioxidants (Basel). 2025 Jul 3;14(7):820. doi: 10.3390/antiox14070820.

Abstract

The study of the effects of 2.45 GHz electromagnetic fields on the health and safety of people and organisms as a whole is essential due to their widespread use in everyday life. It is known that they can cause thermal and non-thermal effects-at the molecular, cellular and organismal level. Yeast suspensions were treated with 2.45 GHz microwave radiation in the near-field of antenna at two distances (2 and 4 cm) and two time periods (20 and 60 min)-setups resembling the use of mobile devices. The release of UV-absorbing substances from the cells was studied as an indicator of membrane permeabilization, total intracellular antioxidant activity and reduced glutathione were determined, and a comet assay for damage to the DNA was performed. A correlation between reduced antioxidants and increased membrane permeability during EMF treatment was observed at a distance of 2 cm for 20 min, suggesting the presence of oxidative stress, while a similar effect was not observed with conventional heating. Slightly increased membrane permeability was observed after irradiation for 60 min at a distance of 4 cm, but this was not related to the antioxidant status of the cells. A trend towards increased DNA damage was observed under both conditions.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/14/7/820

Low frequency magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative disease: systematic review of animal studies

Stam R. Low frequency magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative disease: systematic review of animal studies. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Aug 3:1-15. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2540435.

Abstract

Epidemiological studies have found an association between occupational exposure to low frequency magnetic fields and the occurrence of motor neuron disease and Alzheimer's disease. No association has been found for Parkinson's disease and the evidence for multiple sclerosis is insufficient. Animal models studying the effects of low frequency magnetic fields on neurodegenerative disease induction or progression could provide more evidence on causation and the underlying mechanisms. A systematic search and review was conducted of peer-reviewed research articles involving animal experiments on the effects of low frequency magnetic field exposure on behavioural and neuroanatomical outcomes relevant for neurodegenerative diseases in humans. Firstly, experimental studies in naive animals do not support a causal relationship between exposure to low frequency magnetic fields and the induction of neuropathology relevant for Alzheimer's disease, but the number of studies relevant for motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease is too limited to draw conclusions. Secondly, experimental studies in existing animal models for neurodegenerative disease support a therapeutic (beneficial) effect of low frequency magnetic field treatment on behavioural and neuroanatomical abnormalities relevant for dementia (including Alzheimer's disease), multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease and no effect on disease progression in models relevant for motor neuron disease.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40754996/

Proteomic Characterization of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Exposed to a 50 Hz Magnetic Field

Bracci M, Lazzarini R, Piva F, Giulietti M, Marinelli Busilacchi E, Rossi E, Di Criscio F, Santarelli L, Poloni A. Proteomic Characterization of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Exposed to a 50 Hz Magnetic Field. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Jun 24;26(13):6035. doi:10.3390/ijms26136035.

Abstract

Exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) can induce biological alterations in human cells, including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). However, the molecular mechanisms and key regulatory factors underlying this cellular response remain largely unknown. In this study, we analyzed the proteomic profiles of PBMCs isolated from three human subjects. PBMCs were exposed to 50 Hz, 1 mT of ELF-MF for 24 h and compared to unexposed PBMCs from the same individuals. ELF-MF exposure altered the expression levels of several PBMC proteins without affecting cell proliferation, cell viability, or cell cycle progression. A total of 51 proteins were upregulated, 36 of which were intercorrelated and associated with the Cellular Metabolic Process (GO:0044237) and Metabolic Process (GO:0008152). Among them, solute carrier family 25 member 4 (SLC25A4), which catalyzes the exchange of cytoplasmic ADP for mitochondrial ATP across the inner mitochondrial membrane, was consistently upregulated in all ELF-MF-exposed samples. Additionally, 67 proteins were downregulated, many of which are linked to T cell costimulation (GO:0031295), Cell activation (GO:0001775), and Immune system processes (GO:0002376) included ASPSCR1, PCYT1A, PCYT2, QRAS, and REPS1. In conclusion, ELF-MF exposure induces metabolic reprogramming in human PBMCs, characterized by the upregulation of mitochondrial proteins and downregulation of immune-activation-related proteins, without compromising cell viability or proliferation.

Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/13/6035

Microleakage of Amalgam Restorations after Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields of a Commercial Hair Dryer: An Ex-Vivo Study

Paknahad M, Dehghani A, Khaleghi I, Eghildespour M, Mortazavi G, Mortazavi SMJ. Microleakage of Amalgam Restorations after Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields of a Commercial Hair Dryer: An Ex-Vivo Study. J Biomed Phys Eng. 2025 Jun 1;15(3):263-270. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2210-1551.

Abstract

Background: Dental amalgam is a popular restorative material used in posterior teeth. Hair dryers can emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that may affect the microleakage of the amalgam-tooth interface.

Objective: The aim of this experimental study was to investigate whether the EMFs produced by commercial hair dryers could cause microleakage in amalgam restorations.

Material and methods: In this experimental study, a total of 100 human extracted teeth without cavities were selected and prepared for class V preparations on their buccal aspects. The teeth were divided into five groups (G1-G5), each containing 20 teeth. Group 1 served as the control group and was not subjected to any treatment. Groups 2 to 5 were exposed to EMFs of a hair dryer (2000 W, 220 V, and 50 Hz). Groups 2 and 3 were exposed to "EMFs +Hot Air" for 20 min at 10 cm and 30 min at 5 cm, respectively. Groups 4 and 5 were exposed to "EMFs +Cool Air" for 20 min at 10 cm and 30 min at 5cm, respectively. After preparation, the sectioned teeth were evaluated for microleakage using dye penetration measurement.

Results: The microleakage scores showed a significant difference among the three exposure groups (G2, G3, and G5) and the control group (P=0.001, 0.002, and 0.01, respectively). However, there was no significant difference between G4 and G1. The microleakage score in G2 was higher than that in G4.

Conclusion: This study suggests that the common use of hair dryers can lead to damage in amalgam restorations.

Open access: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/article_49466.html

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields reduce bumble bee visitation to flowers

Treder M, Glück M, England SJ, Traynor KS. Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields reduce bumble bee visitation to flowers. Environ Pollut. 2025 Jul 14:126836. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126836.

Abstract

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) are an integral part of our daily lives and we may struggle to imagine life without them, using them to transmit and stream data for television, the internet, or cell phones. Debates circulate on whether this anthropogenic radiation may be an additional stress factor for pollinators, potentially disrupting important habitats and refugia, especially in highly developed areas. Could these anthropogenic fields interfere with foraging pollinators, influence their foraging behavior or reduce the attractiveness of entire habitats? Current data on sublethal impacts is sparse. We tested the effects of realistic 2.4 and 5.8 GHz radiation on flower visitation rates of different pollinators over two years in a blinded study using a standardized radiation source and a novel study design. Documenting 2,876 pollinators, we found no effect of this radiation on honey bee visitation rates on Salvia and Lavandula plants. However, we found a significant reduction in the number of bumble bee visits per observation when the plants were subjected to RF-EMF exposure, highlighting the need for in-depth and long-term studies to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this effect.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749125012096?via%3Dihub

Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing

Prokscha A, Sheikh F, Jalali M, De Boose P, De Borre E, Jeladze V, Ribas FO, Carvajal DT, Svejda JT, Kubiczek T, Aqlan B, Alibeigloo P, Mutlu E, Watermann J, Abts J, Kress R, Preuss C, Clochiatti S, Wiedau L, Weimann NG, Balzer JC, Thielens A, Kaiser T, Erni D. Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing. Sci Rep. 2025 Mar 27;15(1):10638. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-91630-8.

Abstract

Terahertz (THz) technology provides precise monitoring capabilities in dynamic environments, offering unique insights into insect habitats. Our study focuses on environmental monitoring of European honey bees (Apis mellifera) through a combination of measurements and simulations. Initially, the dielectric material properties of honey bee body parts are characterized across the spectral range of 1-500 GHz to collect heterogeneous empirical data. To extend the study, honey bee mockups made from polyamide 12 (PA12) and epoxy resin are employed and validated as effective substitutes for real bees through comparative scattering analyses. The research further explores radar cross-section (RCS), imaging, and spectral properties using advanced THz technologies, including resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs) operating at 250 GHz and THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) for frequencies exceeding 250 GHz. High-resolution imaging, utilizing a 450 GHz bandwidth, captures intricate anatomical features of both real and 3D-printed bees, showcasing the potential of THz technology for detailed environmental monitoring. Finally, simulations at 300 GHz assess the dosimetry and feasibility of non-invasive, continuous monitoring approaches based on the heterogeneous honey bee model.

Open access: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-91630-8

13.56 MHz RFID Module – From Application to Process Modelling and Effects on Human Health

Constantinescu, C. et al. (2025). 13.56 MHz RFID Module – From Application to Process Modelling and Effects on Human Health. In: Vlad, S., Roman, N.M. (eds) 9th International Conference on Advancements of Medicine and Health Care Through Technology. MEDITECH 2024. IFMBE Proceedings, vol 130. Springer, Cham.doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-95671-3_22

Abstract

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology very used in the last few years due to its reliability and ease of use. The applications are present in a large range of frequencies, but this paper is focused on a13.56 MHz module which is usually combined with an Arduino board. First, a simple application for student monitoring capable of storing information about each student and the time he/she checked in and out of class is presented. The advantages of such a system are highlighted and the components used to construct this system are described. The next step of this paper is to determine how the RFID module functions by numerically modelling it with and without the tags and cards near it, attempting also to show how the positioning of the tags influences the characteristics of the active tag’s antenna. The last step of the study is centered on determining the influence of such a tag near human tissues and concludes by determining if it is safe or not to use an RFID for long periods of time.

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-95671-3_22

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Recent Research on Wireless Radiation and Electromagnetic Fields

Excerpts

Conclusions

Weak Radiofrequency Field Effects on Biological Systems Mediated through the Radical Pair Mechanism