Cross-Review Audit of WHO RF-EMF Systematic Reviews

Sep 15, 2026 (updated Sep 28, 2026)

Because I co-authored three peer-reviewed papers* critical of the WHO radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) systematic reviews, Academia Co-scientist (an AI collaborator) proposed and produced an audit of these reviews for me. These systematic reviews will form the basis for an upcoming WHO Monograph on RF-EMF effects which is why I am sharing this working paper now while it can still do some good. 

Whereas the original working paper (dated Sep 15, 2026) reported on 112 outcome-level certainty ratings, the current version (dated Sep 27, 2026) reports on 150 outcome-level certainty ratings. The current version includes certainty ratings reported in supplementary files for several of the 12 WHO RF-EMF systematic reviews. Furthermore, this version contains the corrected values reported in corrigenda published by the authors of several systematic reviews after their original reviews were published.

As with my original message, this message was sent to the corresponding authors of the WHO RF-EMF systematic reviews, the members of the WHO RF-EMF Monograph Task Force, and several hundred EMF scientists worldwide to stimulate critical discussion about the validity of the reviews upon which this monograph will rely.

"Inconsistent application of GRADE certainty-of-evidence domains across the WHO-commissioned systematic reviews of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure: a cross-review audit" 

By Academia Co-scientist assisted by Claude Opus 5, September 27, 2026

Summary

To update its 1993 RF-EMF monograph, the WHO commissioned a series of systematic reviews addressing prioritized health outcomes. Each review assessed certainty of evidence using the GRADE framework. If GRADE ratings are to be applied across a commissioned series into an overall statement about a hazard, the instrument must have been applied consistently across the reviews making up that series. This is not a question about RF-EMF at all. It is a question about the documents: does the imprecision domain mean the same thing in review A as in review B? Is an outcome rated Moderate in one review on the same scale as an outcome rated Moderate in another? Are the same upgrade routes available throughout?

A cross-review audit was conducted. Every outcome-level rating and domain decision was extracted from 11 reviews reported in 12 publications; the statistical power of every meta-analysis was quantified; risk-of-bias assignments were cross-checked against the primary papers; and all four published corrigenda were reconciled into the corpus.

The audit yielded 150 outcome-level certainty ratings and found that certainty ratings are not commensurable across the series.

Inconsistent "Imprecision": The imprecision domain carries at least eight operational definitions across the series. Each review, taken by itself, is broadly coherent — imprecision decisions track achieved power in the expected direction, pooled and within reviews (Spearman ρ = −0.46 across 122 estimates). What the reviews do not share is a threshold. Reviews downgraded for imprecision at achieved powers as high as 100% and declined to downgrade at powers as low as 10.4%, so there is no level of precision at which the series agrees on what the domain requires. This is a harder problem than carelessness: it cannot be fixed by asking any individual review to be more careful.

Contradictory Indirectness Rules: Two reviews hold that epidemiological evidence is never downgraded for indirectness. Four others downgrade it, one by two levels per outcome. The rules are mutually exclusive and are applied within a single evidence stream.

Structural Bias (Missing Upgrades): The upgrade half of GRADE is absent from three instruments and unused in most of the rest. Of 150 outcomes, eight operative upgrades use a bespoke cross-species domain; where the standard columns are present with prespecified numeric thresholds, they were never met. An instrument that can only subtract will inevitably converge on low certainty regardless of what the studies actually show.

Internal Contradictions: Identical inputs sometimes yielded opposite verdicts. Two halves of a single review implemented the same protocol clause in opposite directions. More sharply, within one evidence profile assessed by one team, a confidence interval 0.293 SD wide was downgraded for imprecision while one 0.351 SD wide, on the same cognitive test and at the same power, was not — the domain is not monotone in interval width even within a single table.

Certainty Language Outruns Precision: Of 122 meta-analyses with interpretable targets, 63 had less than 80% power against their moderate target. The principal cancer review has a median power of 0.28 to detect a 20% increase in risk, downgraded no outcome for imprecision, and rated four outcomes Moderate — the wording being that exposure "likely does not increase" risk — at powers of 0.17 to 0.64. A rating of that kind documents an absence of precision rather than an absence of effect.

Non-Comparable Scales: The animal and human cancer reviews were rated on entirely different scales. One expresses strength of positive support for a hazard, the other confidence in an absence of association, and the same word — "Moderate" — denotes different quantities in the two.

The audit takes no position on whether RF-EMF exposure causes any of these outcomes. Every finding above would stand unchanged if the reviews' substantive conclusions were entirely correct, because each concerns the internal consistency of the instrument rather than the adequacy of the inference.

Recommendations Prior to WHO Publication of RF-EMF Monograph

These differences originate in the instruments, not the evidence. The series should take the following steps before the WHO Monograph is published:

Publish a common operational specification for the imprecision and indirectness domains. One review in the series already prespecifies a quantitative imprecision criterion and obeys it in every row of its evidence profile, which establishes both that the domain can be specified and that no one else adopted the specification.

Explain the omission of upgrade columns (dose–response and large magnitude), as a downgrade-only instrument cannot return a high rating for any body of evidence.

Issue errata for internal discordances and clearly distinguish domains assessed "without concern" from domains that simply "could not be assessed." An evidence profile that prints a single character in a cell cannot express the difference, and readers aggregating across reviews cannot recover it.

Prior to publication of the WHO Environmental Health Criteria Monograph, the series should establish a common operational specification for the imprecision and indirectness domains and apply those criteria across all of its constituent reviews, to ensure consistency in their certainty-of-evidence ratings. Until then, ratings from different reviews in this series should not be treated as equivalent, and an overall characterization built by aggregating them across reviews will inherit differences that originate in the instruments rather than in the evidence.

The revised audit report can be downloaded at:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qrLFvfxK2ATg9JYM_ncJy65uS68J9xsp/view?usp=drive_link

* References

Frank, Melnick, Moskowitz on behalf of the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF). A critical appraisal of the WHO 2024 systematic review of the effects of RF-EMF exposure on tinnitus, migraine/headache, and non-specific symptoms. Reviews on Environmental Health, 2024. DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2024-0069. https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/reveh-2024-0069/html

Frank, Moskowitz, Melnick, Hardell, Philips, Héroux, Kelley, E. The systematic review on RF-EMF exposure and cancer by Karipidis et al. (2024) has serious flaws that undermine the validity of the study’s conclusions. Environment International, 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.109200. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024007876

Melnick, Moskowitz, Héroux, Mallery-Blythe, McCredden, Herbert, Hardell, Philips, Belpoggi, Frank, Scarato, Kelley; on behalf of the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF). The WHO-commissioned systematic reviews on health effects of radiofrequency radiation provide no assurance of safety. Environmental Health. 2025 Oct 2;24(1):70. DOI: 10.1186/s12940-025-01220-4. https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-025-01220-4 Supplementary Material 1: "Examples of Working Group Authors’ Ties to Industry" Supplementary Material 2:  Moskowitz: "The Meta-Analyses in the WHO RF-EMF Systematic Reviews Yielded Unreliable Results" 

Related posts

WHO Radiofrequency EMF Health Risk Assessment Monograph (EHC series) 

Biased WHO-commissioned review claims no cancer link to cellphone use

International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF)

ICBE-EMF Publications

U.S. Health and Human Services Dept. Requests Information on EMF and Wireless Radiation

Request for Information on Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs), Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation, and Wireless Radiation Exposure

A Notice by the Health and Human Services Department on 09/21/2026

This document has a comment period that ends on October 21, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST.

HOW TO SUBMIT A PUBLIC COMMENT:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/21/2026-19252/request-for-information-on-electromagnetic-fields-emfs-radiofrequency-rf-radiation-and-wireless#open-comment

You can view alternative ways to comment or you may also comment via Regulations.gov at https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/HHS-OASH-2026-0397-0001.

AGENCY: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS or the Department).

ACTION: Notice of Request for Information (RFI) on electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and human health.

SUMMARY: Consistent with the Department of Health and Human Services' emphasis on evaluating environmental factors that may affect human health, particularly among children and other potentially vulnerable populations, HHS seeks information on electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions and exposure, particularly RF and wireless, and human health. RF radiation and other forms of non-ionizing electromagnetic (EMF) exposure, will hereafter be referred to as “RF/EMF.” Responses will help identify and assess the current state of the scientific evidence on RF/EMF exposures and health outcomes, compare existing domestic and international safety standards and regulatory approaches, identify research gaps and priority areas for future study, and inform practical, evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, public health stakeholders, families, schools, and communities. HHS welcomes input from researchers, clinicians, public health professionals, industry, standards organizations, educators, advocacy groups, and members of the public to clearly distinguish established evidence from emerging findings and areas of uncertainty, and supports transparent, science-informed decision-making.

DATES:  Comments on this notice must be received no later than October 21, 2026.

ADDRESSES: 

RFI Docket: You may examine the RFI docket at regulations.gov under HHS-OASH-2026-0397. The docket contains this RFI and all comments received to date. To submit a response, click the “Comment” button inside Docket: HHS-OASH-2026-0397and follow all instructions.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  

Victoria Marshall, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, OASH-RFI@hhs.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are energy fields produced by moving electrically charged particles and electrical currents. EMFs occur across a broad range of frequencies, including low radiofrequency (RF) associated with power systems and household appliances, as well as higher RF and microwave exposures associated with wireless communication technologies. HHS is conducting this request for information under 21 CFR subpart J.

Public concern about potential health effects from RF/EMF exposure has increased, particularly in relation to children, schools, and long-term cumulative exposure. At the same time, scientific literature is extensive, technically complex, and not always easy for policymakers or public health stakeholders to interpret. Exposure standards and regulatory approaches also vary across jurisdictions. HHS is interested in clear, balanced, and evidence-informed information about RF/EMF exposure that can support decision-making, identify research priorities, and inform practical strategies to reduce unnecessary exposure where appropriate.

Request for Information

For this RFI, HHS is seeking input from the public, including individuals, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, public health practitioners, researchers, organizations, equipment or product manufacturers, service or infrastructure providers, and other interested stakeholders that have knowledge of or experience with RF/EMF emission and exposure. Please identify whether your response is based on peer-reviewed research, government reports, industry data, clinical observations, or other sources. If you rely on existing exposure guidelines, regulatory frameworks, or scientific assessments, please identify the specific framework(s) and explain how they inform your response. Respondents are encouraged to include supporting facts, research, datasets, technical reports, and other evidence in their comments, including citations to the published materials referenced, and active hyperlinks, where available.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Responses submitted at regulations.gov/deregulation should follow the format provided there. You may respond to one or more of the questions listed below and please include question numbers provided in the response. Each responding entity (person or organization) should submit only one response. Unless submitted anonymously, responses should include the name(s) of the person(s) or organization(s) submitting the comment. If a comment is submitted on behalf of an organization, the individual respondent's role in the organization may also be provided. In your response, please describe which perspective(s) your comments represent: individual consumer, patient, family member, or caregiver; healthcare professional; equipment or product manufacturer; service or infrastructure provider; business; industry group; government; research entity; or another type of organization or perspective.

This RFI is voluntary, and responses may be submitted anonymously. Please do not submit proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information, to include personally identifiable (PII) or personal health information (PHI), in response to this RFI.

This RFI should not be construed as a policy, solicitation for applications, or as an obligation on the part of the government to provide support for any ideas in response to it. Comments submitted will become public on regulations.gov. The information provided will be analyzed and may appear in anonymized reports, on HHS websites, or otherwise released publicly. Respondents are advised that the government is not obligated to acknowledge receipt of submissions. Those submitting responses are solely responsible for all expenses associated with response preparation. HHS will use the information submitted in response to this RFI at its discretion and will not comment on any respondent's submission. However, responses to this RFI may be reflected in future solicitation(s) or policies.

QUESTIONS

Public Experiences and Reported Potential Adverse Health Effects

2. In your response, please describe which perspective(s) your comments represent: individual consumer, patient, family member, or caregiver; healthcare professional; worker with occupational exposure; equipment or product manufacturer; service or infrastructure provider; business; industry group; government; research entity; or another type of organization or perspective.

3. We invite individuals, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and organizations to share experiences regarding potential adverse health effects they believe may be associated with exposure to RF/EMFs. Respondents are encouraged to provide as much detail as they are comfortable sharing, recognizing that responses to this RFI will be public and therefore should not include PII or PHI. Examples of information that may be helpful to include are the following:

a. The type(s) of wireless technology or RF/EMF source(s) involved ( e.g., mobile phones, Wi-Fi, smart meters, wireless infrastructure, wearable devices, occupational equipment).

b. The nature, duration, frequency, and approximate timing of the reported exposure(s).

c. The potential adverse health effects experienced.

d. When potential adverse health effects first appeared relative to when exposure began and whether any changes in exposure coincided with potential adverse health effects.

e. Whether medical evaluation or treatment was sought, including any diagnoses received (if the respondent chooses to share them).

f. Whether steps to reduce or eliminate exposure were taken and, if so, whether any subsequent changes in potential adverse health effects were observed.

g. Any supporting documentation, including scientific reports, exposure measurements, or other relevant information.

4. We invite healthcare professionals, researchers, and public health practitioners to describe observations from clinical practice, occupational settings, or research that may help identify patterns, if any, of reported potential adverse health effects associated with RF/EMF radiation and exposure. In describing these observations, please include where available:

h. The types of potential adverse health effects reported.

i. Onset of potential adverse health effects.

j. Characteristics of the individuals or populations involved, excluding any identifying information such as PII or PHI.

k. Any observed exposure patterns.

l. What standardized methods were used to assess exposure or potential adverse health effects, if any were used.

m. Recommendations for future research or surveillance.

Exposure Standards and Risk Assessment

5. What existing national and international exposure standards, guidelines, or regulatory frameworks should federal health agencies consider when evaluating the potential adverse health effects of human exposure to RF/EMF?

n. What scientific, technical, or regulatory changes by federal health agencies, if any, would improve the assessment, disclosure, and regulation of wireless radiation exposure?

o. Is additional research needed to develop, test, and evaluate the effectiveness of procedures and techniques for minimizing exposure to electronic product radiation? Where are the largest gaps, if any, in knowledge? What research is needed to appropriately evaluate current or future national and international exposure standards, guidelines, or regulatory frameworks.

p. How, if at all, should a classification system account for exposure-related characteristics, including operating frequency, power density, specific absorption rate (SAR), electric- and magnetic-field strength, modulation and pulse characteristics, duty cycle, beamforming, simultaneous exposure to multiple frequencies, duration of exposure, distance from the source, proximity to the body, and cumulative exposure over time?

6. What scientific evidence exists about potential adverse health effects caused by current exposure limits?

Measuring Human Exposure and Public Health Surveillance

7. What scientific methods are currently available for accurately characterizing individual and population-level RF radiation exposure?

8. What, if any, improvements in exposure assessment methodologies are needed to better evaluate real-world exposure conditions?

9. What, if any, technical and exposure-related information should be disclosed to consumers, residents, workers, schools, healthcare providers, and local governments?

10. What data sources or surveillance systems currently exist to monitor potential adverse health effects associated with RF radiation exposure? Should additional data sources or surveillance systems be developed? Please discuss the benefits and challenges of the following data sources and surveillance systems, as relevant:

a. disease registries.

b. occupational monitoring.

c. environmental monitoring.

d. longitudinal cohort studies.

e. biomonitoring.

f. adverse event reporting.

g. disease or illness clusters.

h. Other.

11. Should exposure assessment or risk evaluation differ for sensitive populations such as those noted below? Please explain.

a. children.

b. pregnant women.

c. older adults.

d. individuals with implanted medical devices.

e. workers with elevated occupational exposure.

f. individuals with preexisting medical conditions.

g. Other populations that may uniquely experience potential adverse health effects in response to RF radiation.

Existing Evidence

12. What scientific evidence exists regarding potential adverse health effects associated with RF radiation exposure at levels below current federal exposure limits?

13. According to scientific evidence, how do the technologies below affect cumulative exposure patterns?

a. 5G.

b. 6G.

c. Wi-Fi.

d. Satellite-based communications.

e. Internet of Things (IoT).

f. Wearable technologies.

g. Smart homes/appliances.

h. Smart cities.

i. Autonomous vehicles.

j. Wireless medical devices.

k. Communication enabled smart meters.

14. What scientific evidence exists regarding potential adverse environmental effects associated with RF radiation?

15. What types of scientific evidence should be considered when evaluating RF exposure associated with wireless infrastructure? Please comment on:

a. proximity to homes, schools, childcare facilities, healthcare facilities, and/or workplaces.

b. cumulative neighborhood exposure.

c. antenna density.

d. small-cell deployment.

e. livestock.

Federal Research Priorities

16. What are the highest priority research gaps regarding EMF and RF radiation and public health that the federal health agencies should address?

17. How can federal health agencies improve coordination of EMF and RF radiation research? Please comment on potential roles for federal health agencies including, but not limited to:

a. HHS Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

b. HHS National Institutes of Health (NIH).

c. HHS Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Additional Information

18. Please identify any additional scientific evidence, technical information, data, or recommendations that federal health agencies should consider when evaluating potential adverse health effects associated with RF/EMF radiation exposure.

Published Document: 2026-19252 (91 FR 59792)

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/21/2026-19252/request-for-information-on-electromagnetic-fields-emfs-radiofrequency-rf-radiation-and-wireless 

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 (744 page pdf):

https://bit.ly/EMFstudies-2024-Sept-2026

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.

A review of potential health risks of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure from mobile phones and base stations in children and pregnant women

Dogra S, Rajput S, Rathi A, Gautam R, Mazumder P, Sinha A, Sahoo RK, Pati S, Mukherjee A, Arora T (2026) A review of potential health risks of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure from mobile phones and base stations in children and pregnant women. Front. Public Health 14:1915745. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1915745.

Abstract

Over the last decade, the rapid expansion of mobile communication technologies has substantially increased population exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). This has raised concerns about possible health implications, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women. Although international agencies have reported no consistent evidence of harmful effects at established exposure limits, uncertainties remain regarding long-term and developmental effects. This review synthesizes and evaluates epidemiological and experimental evidence published between 2015 and 2025; a period characterized by rapid technological transitions (4G to 5G), advances in exposure assessment techniques, and increasing reliance on wireless devices. Confining the time frame ensures a more relevant and up-to-date assessment of current exposure patterns and emerging biological insights. The review explores the association between RF-EMF exposure and major health outcomes, including reproductive and developmental effects, cancer risk, and neurological changes. It also integrates mechanistic pathways involving oxidative stress, DNA damage, and ROS signalling. Although no definitive causal relationship has been established, the evidence remains inconsistent due to variability in study design, exposure metrics, and outcome definitions. Notably, experimental and high-exposure studies provide biologically plausible mechanisms, particularly through oxidative stress pathways; however, these findings have not been consistently observed in the human population. Children and foetuses may exhibit greater susceptibility because of developmental and physiological factors, yet high-quality longitudinal evidence remains limited. Overall, further standardized, mechanistic, and long-term studies are needed to strengthen the scientific evidence base and inform public health policy.

Conclusion

The current evidence indicates that the association between RF-EMF exposure and health outcomes in vulnerable groups particularly children and pregnant women remains uncertain and not yet definitively resolved. Although mechanistic and experimental studies suggest potential effects such as disruptions in calcium signaling, oxidative stress and potential effects of cognition, neurodevelopment and reproductive health (such as impacts of fetal development, fertility and endocrine function). A major limitation across the literature is lack of standardized and objective exposure metrics by which epidemiological findings remain inconsistent.

Many studies depend on self reported usage rather than objective measurements such as dosimetry or environmental monitoring. Furthermore, the distinction between near field and far field exposures complicate risk evaluation, as metrics like SAR does not adequately reflect cumulative and real life exposure scenarios. Although guidelines from ICNIRP effectively address established thermal effects of RF-EMF exposure, uncertainties remain regarding potential long term, low intensity and non thermal biological effects, particularly during sensitive developmental stages. The rapid development of wireless technologies, with 5G networks expanding across the globe and increasing more dependency on device at younger ages, means that there is urgent need to continuously re-evaluate current safety standards. Future research should focus on well designed studies, standardized exposure assessment especially those started during pregnancy and early life stages and adopt interdisciplinary strategies integrating experimental, epidemiological and computational modelling to better understand mechanisms and dose–response relationships. Further in future epidemiologic studies, more emphasis should be placed on the use of objective exposure assessment, standardised dosimetry, repeated exposure measurements, and rigorous control of potential confounding factors to improve causal inference. A prudent approach may therefore be considered in the form of precautionary measures such as minimizing unnecessary exposure, public awareness and promoting safe device practices. Ultimately, only rigorous, advanced research and reassessment will address existing knowledge gaps. This will inform evidence based regulatory policies for protecting the vulnerable populations in an increasingly wireless world.

Open access: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2026.1915745/full

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A systematic review of mobile phone use and pregnancy and fetal outcomes

Wang M, Zhang Y, Angley M, Kleiman NJ, Wang X, Kahe K. A systematic review of mobile phone use and pregnancy and fetal outcomes. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol (2026). doi: 10.1038/s41370-026-00958-4.

Abstract

Background  Pregnancy is a crucial period characterized by profound maternal and fetal biological changes and increasing susceptibility to environmental influences. The widespread use of mobile phones has raised concerns regarding potential health effects during pregnancy. Mobile phones emit non-ionizing radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), which could affect fetal development through thermal and non-thermal mechanisms. Research on mobile phone use during pregnancy remains limited and yields mixed findings.

Objective  This review systematically evaluated evidence on the associations between maternal mobile phone use—specifically frequency and duration—and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods  Comprehensive PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar searches identified 20 studies meeting the predetermined inclusion criteria. Covidence was used for title and abstract screening.

Results  While several studies reported no significant health threat, others suggested an association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The most consistent evidence emerged for alterations in fetal and neonatal cardiac function and increased risk of preterm birth, highlighting a need for further targeted research on system-specific vulnerabilities.

Impact  Despite the widespread use of mobile phones, the adverse effects of RF-EMF exposure remain poorly understood, especially among susceptible populations, such as pregnant women. This study synthesizes human evidence to inform the general public, clinicians, researchers, patients, and policymakers about the potential risks associated with prenatal RF-EMF exposure. Although findings remain inconclusive, the evidence suggests possible effects on fetal cardiac function and gestational duration. By identifying methodological limitations and research gaps, this review highlights the need for standardized exposure assessment and well-designed prospective studies to enable more definitive risk evaluation and guide evidence-based recommendations for safer prenatal mobile phone use.

Conclusion

This review systematically evaluates the available literature regarding the health impacts of mobile phone use during pregnancy. While some studies report no significant effects, others suggest potential risks such as cardiovascular abnormalities and shorter gestational duration. Potential mechanisms like RF-EMF-induced oxidative stress may underlie these adverse health outcomes. Notably, all non-randomized studies showed serious or critical risk of bias, and the randomized studies ranged from some concerns to high risk, so findings should be interpreted with caution. Future research should prioritize well-designed cohort studies with standardized exposure assessments to clarify these associations. Because of the rapid evolution of mobile phone technology and increased frequency and duration of mobile phone usage, understanding the long-term impacts of RF-EMF exposure on maternal and fetal health remains critical. While agencies like the NIH and CDC note that benefits generally outweigh risks, the emerging evidence may support precautionary measures to reduce mobile phone usage during pregnancy, particularly among high-risk pregnant women. Simple interventions, such as using speakerphones or wired headsets, keeping phones away from the abdomen, and enabling airplane mode during inactivity, may be suggested during biologically sensitive periods. Due to the inherent limitations of the primary studies reviewed in this manuscript, any definitive conclusions or recommendations will require more rigorous studies with clearly defined and quantified exposures and health outcomes.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-026-00958-4

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Safeguarding Children's Health in the Digital Age: Addressing Screen Time, Wireless Radiation, and Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposures

A Position Statement on Children’s Health and Electromagnetic Fields by the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields 

ICBE-EMF Position Statement on Children and EMF

https://icbe-emf.org/safeguarding-childrens-health-in-the-digital-age-addressing-screen-time-wireless-radiation-and-extremely-low-frequency-non-ionizing-electromagnetic-field-exposures/

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Non-ionizing radiation and cancer: A review on current evidence, mechanistic insights, and public health implications

Agrahari M, Gupta S, Thakur G, Tanwar S, Gautam R, Arora T. Non-ionizing radiation and cancer: A review on current evidence, mechanistic insights, and public health implications. Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports, Volume 47, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2026.102705.

Abstract

Non-ionizing radiation (NIR) generated from the high power transmission lines, broadcasting antennas and cellular phones represent one of the widespread environmental exposures which can induce carcinogenic outcome. Although NIR lacks sufficient energy to dislodge the electrons for ionization, an indirect mechanism has been proposed to be involved in adverse outcomes under certain exposure conditions. Consequently, radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure remains a consistent scientific and public health concern regarding its possible role in cancer manifestation. This review aims to analyze the findings of RF-EMF exposure and carcinogenicity by integrating epidemiological studies and experimental findings to demonstrate its potential function in cancer manifestation.The available evidence is not sufficient to conclude that RF-EMF exposure is a direct-acting genotoxic carcinogen or cancer initiator. However, laboratory studies have indicated that long-term exposure to non-thermal RF-EMF can cause oxidative stress, genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, ion transport disruption and dysregulation of cell-signaling pathways. These biological effects may contribute to the promotion and progression stages of carcinogenesis, but are not directly responsible for tumor/cancer initiation. The epidemiological evidence significantly varies between extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). Although ELF-MF exposure has demonstrated a more reliable association with childhood leukemia, the data connecting RF-EMF exposure to cancer is less consistent.Studies with the larger sample size and increased exposure duration are needed to strongly corroborate its involvement in cancer development.

Highlights

• Non-ionizing radiation (RF-EMF) does not directly cause cancer but may indirectly influence carcinogenesis through biological pathways.
• Exposure to RF-EMF can induce oxidative stress, genomic instability, and altered cell signaling mechanisms.
• Epidemiological evidence on cancer risk (e.g., brain tumors, leukemia) remains inconsistent and inconclusive.
• Long-term and high-exposure conditions may contribute to cancer progression, further large scale research is needed.

Conclusion from current evidences

Despite the long-term investigations, the association between the non-ionizing electromagnetic field and related carcinogenicity remained ambiguous. Major inconsistency lies in its methodological limitations as epidemiological studies reported variable outcomes due to EMF exposure. Available studies indicate that the observed biological effects are not consistently correlated with exposure frequency, duration, or power density. Based on the evidence reviewed here, RF-EMF exposure is currently not established as a complete or direct-acting genotoxic carcinogen that can initiate cancer by DNA damage. However, experimental studies suggest that long term exposure to RF-EMF can cause oxidative stress, genomic instability and altered gene expression, cellular signalling which may be involved in tumour promotion and progression. Thus RF-EMF can be more appropriately considered as a potential non-genotoxic modulator of carcinogenesis rather than a direct cancer initiator. However, the current evidence is still not enough to prove a definite cause effect relationship.

Moreover the existing evidence must be analysed independently for ELF-MF and RF-EMF exposures. Although ELF-MF exposure demonstrates a relatively consistent association with childhood leukemia, evidence supporting a carcinogenic role of RF-EMF remains limited and inconclusive. Further study with the larger sample size and precise exposure assessment is needed to validate the results with more accuracy and to suggest its involvement in cancer development.

Open access: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405580826002657

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Impact of Terahertz Electromagnetic Devices on Human Tissue: A Review of SAR and Safety Considerations 

Sharma N, Kaur A, Sharma S.  Impact of Terahertz Electromagnetic Devices on Human Tissue: A Review of SAR and Safety Considerations. Radio Science. 61(8). doi: 10.1029/2025RS008496

Abstract 

Terahertz (THz) technology, operating in the 0.1=10 THz band, has gained increasing relevance in wireless communications, biomedical diagnostics, and wearable systems. Its ability to provide high-resolution imaging and non-invasive sensing has made it a promising tool in healthcare. However, strong absorption of THz waves by water-rich biological tissues raises critical concerns regarding biological safety. A key metric for evaluating electromagnetic exposure is the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which quantifies the rate of energy deposition in tissues. This review examines the role of THz antennas, sensors, and absorbers in shaping electromagnetic field distributions and their implications on SAR. While flexible and compact THz antennas and sensors demonstrate potential for applications such as COVID-19 detection, fall monitoring, and biosensing, most studies rely on simplified phantoms or simulations, limiting biological realism. Similarly, metamaterial absorbers enhance device sensitivity and control field localization but may inadvertently introduce resonant hotspots that increase localized SAR. Current research highlights a trade-off between device performance and biological safety, further constrained by incomplete dielectric data sets and lack of standardized measurement techniques. This review underscores the urgent need for experimental validation, localized SAR metrics, and updated safety frameworks to ensure the safe deployment of THz-enabled biomedical technologies.

https://doi.org/10.1029/2025RS008496

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Health and Environmental Consequences of Blue Light Exposure and Mitigation Strategies: A Review

Alkhatib H, B Norton B. Health and Environmental Consequences of Blue Light Exposure and Mitigation Strategies: A Review. Environmental Advances. 2026. doi: 10.1016j.envadv.2026.100749.

Abstract

Blue light is a natural component of the visible spectrum that has a fundamental role in regulating circadian rhythms, visual performance, mood, and daytime alertness. In modern environments, however, exposure patterns have shifted due to widespread use of artificial lighting and digital devices. Artificial blue light exposure can be mistimed relative to the biological night. This literature review examines the consequences of inappropriately timed artificial blue light exposure. Specifically, the review covers: (i) the spectral biology of blue light and its role in circadian entrainment; (ii) the timing-, intensity-, and duration-dependent effects on human sleep, ocular health, mood, and metabolic regulation; (iii) age-specific vulnerabilities; (iv) ecological impacts of artificial blue light at night on wildlife behaviour and ecosystem dynamics; (v) existing regulatory frameworks and their limitations; and (vi) current and emerging mitigation technologies, including spectral optimization and adaptive lighting systems. For people, evening blue light exposure suppresses melatonin and disrupts circadian phase alignment leading to adverse metabolic, reproductive, and carcinogenic outcomes. Ecosystems can also be disrupted by artificial blue light at night. Relevant regulatory frameworks are fragmented; they largely do not incorporate circadian-relevant spectral metrics. Increasingly available mitigation technologies require agreed standards for their unbiased assessment.

Conclusions

Feasible mitigation strategies are available. Spectral engineering advances have reduced the cost of low-blue LED products (Wang et al., 2024), tunable lighting systems have become commercially accessible for both residential and commercial settings (Mordor Intelligence 2025), and smart lighting infrastructure is now routinely integrated into urban development projects (Mahoor et al., 2020). Spectral optimization, tunable lighting systems, smart adaptive controls, shielding, and user-level filtering technologies offer practical pathways to reduce inappropriate night-time exposure while preserving the functional benefits of blue light during the day. Effective implementation, however, requires coordination between engineers, public health practitioners, ecologists and relevant policymakers.

The biological and ecological effects of blue light depend on the timing, intensity, and duration of exposure. Appropriately timed daytime blue light exposure supports circadian entrainment, alertness, and mood regulation. In contrast, blue-enriched light during the evening and night disrupts melatonin secretion, delays circadian phase, impairs sleep quality, and contributes to ocular strain, with evidence suggesting metabolic and psychological effects. For ecosystems, artificial blue light at night alters migration patterns, predator–prey interactions, reproductive behaviours, and plant physiology, creating cascading environmental effects.

Current fragmented regulatory frameworks largely focus on photobiological safety thresholds rather than circadian-relevant spectral composition and exposure timing. While some jurisdictions have introduced limits on high-intensity blue-rich lighting, consistent integration of chronobiological metrics into building codes, occupational standards, and urban lighting policies remains limited.

Significant research gaps remain, particularly regarding long-term cumulative exposure effects, age-specific vulnerability thresholds, and ecosystem-level exposure limits. Future work should prioritize longitudinal human studies, quantification of ecological sensitivity thresholds, and adoption of standardized circadian-informed lighting metrics.

Ultimately, the challenge is not to eliminate artificial blue light, but to align its use with biological and environmental rhythms. A timing- and spectrum-informed approach to the design, operation, and regulation of lighting and light-emitting devices is essential to balance technological benefits with human and ecological health.

Open access: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666765726000670

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Shielding the First 24 Postnatal Months of Life: A Proposal for a Prospective Cohort Study of Early-Life Electromagnetic Exposure and Autism Risk

Garoli A, Greco A. Shielding the First 24 Postnatal Months of Life: A Proposal for a Prospective Cohort Study of Early-Life Electromagnetic Exposure and Autism Risk. Alpha Psychiatry. 2026 Aug 24;27(4):53282. doi: 10.31083/AP53282. 

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) involves Mirror Neuron System (MNS) dysfunction, driving core social and imitative impairments. Systemic physiological alterations such as autonomic dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation are known to impair synchronization and plasticity of neuronal clusters. A less-evident environmental cofactor, coinciding with rising ASD prevalence, is the considerable world-wide increase in electromagnetic radiation (EMR) overall exposure among children. Experimental evidence shows how low-intensity EMR influences cellular processes, via voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs), oxidative stress, and mitochondrial metabolism. The Resonant Convergence framework, allow to predict how chronic EMR exposure during the first 24 postnatal months of life can act as a factor in ASD pathogenesis. The best candidate mechanism is chronic Ion Cyclotron Resonance (ICR) detuning the Ca2+-calmodulin pathway, thus disrupting MNS synchronization.

Methods and analysis: A prospective observational pilot cohort study (24-month follow-up) proposes to enroll 1000 full-term newborns into two arms: an EMR-reduced cohort (n = 500, rest and sleep-phase Faraday shielding) and a standard exposure cohort (n = 500). Exposure is quantified via radiofrequency (RF)/extremely low frequency(ELF) measurements, proximity analysis, device inventories and wearable dosimetry. The primary endpoint is a continuous neurodevelopmental trajectory score (joint attention, language, electroencephalogram (EEG) mu-rhythm); binary ASD diagnosis (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)) is a secondary, exploratory endpoint. Moreover, an optional genomic screening will evaluate gene-environment interactions within extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) vulnerable pathways, including ASD-associated genes upregulated by RF via bromodomain and extraterminal protein (BET)-mediated epigenetic mechanisms. Analyses will employ risk ratios, Fisher's exact tests and logistic regression adjusted for confounders; mixed-effects and Bayesian modeling will evaluate longitudinal outcomes and exposure reduction effects. Given a 2-3% baseline prevalence, approximately 20-30 ASD cases are expected. The study is therefore powered for exploratory signal detection rather than definitive causal inference, providing the critical baseline data required to justify and design future confirmatory trials. Sex-stratified modeling will address the 4:1 male-to-female prevalence ratio.

Ethics and dissemination: Ethics committee approval is not yet sought; full protocol review and approval will be obtained prior to the study initiation, in strict accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Written parental informed consent will be mandatory for all participants prior to enrollment. Study findings and methodological milestones will be disseminated through peer-reviewed international scientific publications. This protocol provides a structured methodological framework for the first prospective investigation of sleep-phase EMR reduction as a potential modulator of ASD incidence during early neurodevelopment. Results will inform adequately powered confirmatory trials in electromagnetic neurodevelopmental epidemiology.

Open access: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13539998/

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Real-World Assessment of RF-EMF Exposure From 3G, 4G, and 5G Mobile Networks Across Different Urbanization Levels

My note: This study helps explain why epidemiologic studies (i.e., human observational studies) of cell phone radiation effects often find inconsistent results. Most studies only assess exposure to cell phone radiation and fail to account for other myriad sources of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure including cell towers, cordless phones, and Wi-Fi. Over time with the deployment of more cell towers and adoption of more efficient cell phones, while everyone's bodies are exposed to more microwave radiation, cell phone users' heads are exposed to less radiation. Moreover, cell phone users now are more likely to use text, headsets, or speakerphones reducing microwave exposure to the head while increasing exposure to other parts of their bodies.

Lee AK, Jeon S, Hong SE, Wang S, Wiart J, Samaras T, Moon JI. Real-World Assessment of RF-EMF Exposure From 3G, 4G, and 5G Mobile Networks Across Different Urbanization Levels. IEEE Access, vol. 14, pp. 134636-134653, 2026, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2026.3728447.

Abstract

As 5G mobile networks become increasingly widespread, realistic assessment of radio-frequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure in modern mobile-network environments is becoming increasingly important. This study characterized real-world downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) RF-EMF exposure across different urbanization levels in South Korea using commercial 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile networks. DL electric-field strengths and UL transmit powers were simultaneously measured in urban and rural environments using frequency-selective field measurements and mobile-network logging systems. The measured exposure levels were used to calculate brain specific absorption rate (SAR) using anatomically realistic child and adult numerical models. The results showed that, under the measurement and dosimetric conditions considered in this study, brain SAR associated with DL exposure from base-station infrastructure was comparable to or exceeded that associated with UL exposure in most tested scenarios. Urban–rural differences in whole-brain-averaged SAR reached 6.2 dB for the child model and 5.7 dB for the adult model, whereas age-related differences were substantially smaller. These findings indicate that environmental and network-infrastructure factors are major determinants of RF-EMF exposure variability in dense modern mobile-network environments. By integrating real-world measurements with anatomically realistic dosimetry, this study provides a practical framework for RF-EMF exposure assessment and characterization in evolving mobile communication networks.

Conclusion

Downlink (DL) EMF radiated from base stations (BS) and uplink (UL) transmission power from mobile phones were simultaneously measured in three study areas with different levels of urbanization. Because the WP1 protocol of the SEAWave project was applied for DL exposure measurements, the DL EMF levels reported in this study are directly comparable with those obtained in European measurement campaigns. UL power samples were collected on 3G, 4G, and 5G networks during voice calls and FTP tests, although the analysis primarily focused on 4G and 5G systems. The measured DL EMF and UL power levels were used to calculate brain SAR for both child and adult models, enabling comparison across network operators and mobile communication technologies.

Although substantial variations were observed depending on operator and usage scenario, under the measurement and dosimetric conditions considered in this study, brain SAR associated with DL EMF exposure was comparable to or exceeded that associated with UL transmission in many cases. These findings indicate that, under such conditions, the long-standing perception that mobile phones are the primary source of RF-EMF exposure to the brain may not fully reflect the relative contributions of DL and UL exposure in modern mobile-network environments. Therefore, both UL exposure from device use and DL EMF from BSs should be considered in future exposure assessments and epidemiological studies.

All measured field strengths and calculated SAR values remained well below the exposure limits for the general public specified by the ICNIRP guidelines and IEEE standards. Although whole-brain-averaged SAR is not a dosimetric quantity addressed by current ICNIRP or IEEE exposure guidelines, the measured DL field strengths and UL Tx powers in this study were sufficiently low that the corresponding localized SAR values would likewise be expected to remain well below the applicable basic restrictions. Therefore, the whole-brain SAR values reported in this study represent very low RF-EMF exposure levels under realistic mobile-network operating conditions.

Accordingly, the whole-brain SAR values should be interpreted as dosimetric indicators for quantifying realistic brain RF-EMF exposure under realistic mobile-network operating conditions and for providing a quantitative dosimetric basis for future epidemiological investigations of brain-related health outcomes, rather than as quantities for compliance assessment. Nevertheless, accurate dosimetry of low-level chronic RF-EMF exposure remains important for effective risk communication and for improving exposure assessment in future health studies. By integrating real-world measurements with computational dosimetry, this study provides insight into how evolving mobile-network infrastructures translate into realistic human exposure conditions.

Open access: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=11672739&isnumber=11323511

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Pain threshold induced by local exposure to millimeter waves on human skin

Yuasa A, Uehara S, K, Kodera S, Hirata A, Otaka Y. Pain threshold induced by local exposure to millimeter waves on human skin. J Neurophysiol. 2026 Aug 17. doi: 10.1152/jn.00554.2025.

Abstract

Exposure to millimeter waves potentially causes pain and tissue damage at the exposed body sites. However, the threshold temperature, especially the pain threshold, remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the perception thresholds of four different types of sensations-warmth, heat, tingling, and pain-and individual physical characteristics associated with the pain perception induced by millimeter-wave exposure. Thirty-five healthy adults were exposed to a 28 GHz millimeter wave on their left middle fingertip at an input power of 8.5 W (incident power density averaged over a 1 cm area: 1.00 W/cm) for up to 10 min. The temperature at which the initial subjective perception of each of the four sensation types occurred was determined as the perception threshold for that sensation. When the skin surface temperature exceeded 44°C or when the participant felt pain, the exposure was terminated. The association between participants' physical characteristics and the presence of pain was investigated using logistic regression analysis. Consequently, the perception thresholds increased in the following order: warmth < heat < tingling < pain. A total of 18 (51%) participants perceived pain, and the average pain threshold was 41.9°C. Females were more likely than males to perceive pain (odds ratio, 4.80 [1.15-20.09]), which may be partially explained by sex-related differences in hydration levels and finger circumference. Our results demonstrated that exposure to millimeter waves can induce pain at approximately 42°C and revealed clear sex differences in sensitivity to pain perception under millimeter-wave exposure.

Open access: https://journals.physiology.org/doi/epdf/10.1152/jn.00554.2025

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Electrophysiology of vision after smartphone use

El Mekkawy L, Hussein A, Maher, E et al. Electrophysiology of vision after smartphone use. Egypt J Neurol Psychiatry Neurosurg 62, 165 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41983-026-01226-w.

Abstract

Background  Smart phones emit electromagnetic radiation and blue light which cause many effects on retina and CNS. The aim is to investigate MP usage effect on vision in healthy adults by using VEP and ERG and to correlate these effects with age and previous usage duration.

Results  70 healthy participants were subjected to one hour exposure to a smart phone set at 30 cm distance from eyes. P-VEP and ERG (pattern, full field flash and multifocal) were recorded pre and post exposure. Correlations with age and with prior history of duration of usage were analyzed. Significant P100 latency delay was reported in P-VEP. No effect on P-ERG was observed. F-ERG showed a high statistically significant reduction in b wave amplitude. MF ERG showed a statistically significant P1 amplitude reduction and latency delay. P100 latency increase showed a positive correlation with age and a negative one with prior exposure duration. F-ERG showed significant negative change in (a) wave latency with age but no significant one with MP usage duration. Regarding MF ERG, there was significant negative correlation of P1 wave with age and with the duration of MP usage.

Conclusion  Practicing mindful mobile device utilization to minimize possible undesirable effects on vision is advised. These effects were more obvious in central retina. Long duration of previous use of MP increases tolerance of electro-diagnostic tests of vision to acute exposure though impairing basal function. ERG is more affected in young age, but VEP is more impaired in old age after acute MP exposure.

Open access: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s41983-026-01226-w

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Numerical and machine learning-based modelling of electromagnetic exposure and thermal effects in human head at 2.45 GHz

Bhargava D, Sharma PK, Rattanadecho P, et al. Numerical and machine learning-based modelling of electromagnetic exposure and thermal effects in human head at 2.45 GHz. J Comput Electron 25, 180 (2026). doi: 10.1007/s10825-026-02632-2.

Abstract

We evaluate the distance-dependent electromagnetic (EM) exposure of a heterogeneous human head model at 2.45 GHz; a frequency widely used in wireless communication and healthcare sensing systems. While high-frequency EM waves are known to exhibit shallow penetration, a systematic analysis of how source-to-head distance influences localized absorption and thermal response in multilayer tissues remains limited. A two-dimensional (2D) head model is developed to examine these effects for source separations ranging from 1 to 50 mm, depicting practical wireless device operating conditions. Electric field, SAR, and temperature distributions are computed by solving a coupled EM wave and bioheat transfer model using Finite Element Method (FEM). Results reveal a non-monotonic dependence of EM absorption on source distance, with peak absorption occurring at a separation of 6 mm. The maximum electric field, SAR, and temperature in the skin layer are 66.11 V/m, 3.15 W/kg, and 37.08 °C, respectively, with values decreasing in deeper tissues. A machine learning (ML) framework is implemented to predict SAR and temperature variations, demonstrating strong agreement with the FEM results. The findings emphasize critical role of source proximity in near-field exposure scenarios and provide useful insights for the design and safety evaluation of wireless sensor and communication devices.

Conclusion

This study numerically investigated the effects of 2.45 GHz electromagnetic exposure, commonly associated with wireless communication systems, on SAR and temperature distribution in a human head model, with particular emphasis on source–head separation distance. Maximum absorption was observed when the EM source was positioned 6 mm from the head surface, resulting in peak SAR and temperature values. In all cases, the skin layer exhibited the highest absorption due to its direct exposure to the incident radiation and higher dielectric properties. Depth-wise analysis revealed attenuation of the electric field and SAR with increasing tissue depth, with low absorption in the fat and bone layers and localized SAR variations influenced by tissue dielectric characteristics. The temperature distribution followed a similar trend, decreasing with tissue depth. Although SAR values exceeded the ICNIRP exposure limit, the corresponding temperature rise remained below the safety threshold. Despite the geometric simplifications of the 2D model, the SAR and temperature distributions remain consistent with reported 3D studies, confirming its reliability as a computationally efficient approach for exposure analysis. The applied analysis is further enhanced by the application of the multiple machine models that validate the nonlinear relationship between the source and head distance and the corresponding temperature and SAR distributions. The applied regression models depict strong prediction accuracy and a close alignment between simulated and predicted results. The ML-based analysis preserves prediction fidelity, reduces the computational complexity and time as compared to the full-wave simulations with varying source positions.

The study has certain limitations. First, the model cannot capture out-of-plane field variations and three-dimensional scattering effects, which may influence the actual field distribution. Second, the anatomical complexity of the human head is simplified, neglecting realistic 3D curvature and structural irregularities. Third, the calculated SAR and temperature distributions may differ quantitatively from those in a full three-dimensional model. Therefore, the present results should be interpreted mainly as qualitative and comparative trends.

In future, a more realistic three-dimensional human head model will be investigated, along with a wider range of operating frequencies and advanced machine learning approaches for improved prediction of EM absorption in tissues. In addition, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) are currently being explored to further analyze the proposed framework by integrating physical constraints with data-driven modeling. These findings provide valuable insights for the safety assessment and design optimization of wireless communication devices operating in near-field conditions.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10825-026-02632-2

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Current Approaches for RF-EMF-Monitoring in Europe

Zahner M, Haas D, Ziegler T, Röösli M, Fröhlich, J. Current Approaches for RF-EMF-Monitoring in Europe. 2026 20th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EuCAP), Dublin, Ireland, 2026, pp. 1-5, doi: 10.23919/EuCAP68105.2026.11612595.

Abstract

Current approaches in exposure assessment on the public and the personal level are evaluated regarding accuracy, representativity and suitability for categorization into subpopulations. We discuss novel approaches such as field strength monitoring via a smartphone-based exposure app in a citizen science project and the introduction of a low-cost sensor network for visualizing and quantifying the spatial and temporal dynamics of adaptive transmission technologies. Together with already established population-level monitoring, these methods provide a toolkit enabling multi-layered monitoring.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/11612595

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Effects of 5G frequencies on sperm parameters, mating success, and offspring outcomes in rats

My note: Although this study tested the effects of two commonly-used 5G carrier frequencies, it used continuous wave signals so it was not a test of 5G.

Hairulazam A, Ibrahim SF, Osman K, Mokhtar MH, Zulkefli AF, Ros MFM, Jamaludin N, Taha SMAS, Vijay S, Zakaria Z, Bahar AAM, Jaffar FHF. Effects of 5G frequencies on sperm parameters, mating success, and offspring outcomes in rats. Indian J Med Res. 2026 Sep;164(3):341-348. doi: 10.25259/IJMR_3658_2025. 

Abstract

Background and objectives The advancement of 5G technology is highly anticipated due to its faster data transmission, yet its potential impact on male fertility remains unclear. This study evaluated the effects of 5G frequencies at 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz on sperm parameters, mating success, and offspring outcomes. 

Methods A total of 18 male Sprague Dawley rats (n=18) were divided into three groups: a Control group, a 3.5 GHz group, and a 24 GHz group (n=6). The Control group was sham-exposed. In contrast, the 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz groups were exposed to their respective frequencies for 7 h daily over 60 d. Following 46 d of exposure, a 1:1 mating procedure was conducted. Female rats (n=18) were monitored until gestation d 28 to assess pregnancy rates and birth metrics. Later, the male rats were sacrificed, and sperm quality was evaluated. 

Results Both exposed groups exhibited a significant decrease in sperm concentration and motility (P<0.001) compared to the Control group. The 24 GHz group had a lower pregnancy rate, whereas the 3.5 GHz group showed a lower live birth rate. Congenital anomalies were observed in the 3.5 GHz group, whereas the 24 GHz group presented significantly lower birth weights (P< 0.001). 

Interpretation and conclusions The findings suggest prolonged exposure to 5G frequencies may have a negative impact on male fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and the birth metrics.

Excerpt

The exposure model was designed to simulate realistic 5G environmental conditions10 using frequencies of 3.5 GHz (mid-band) and 24 GHz (high band) spectra allocated for 5G communication.10 Both frequencies were chosen to enable a comparative evaluation of their biological effects, as no prior study investigated pregnancy outcomes following paternal exposure at these frequencies.

The Control group was placed in the radiation room with the antenna or device used for the exposure set to inactive mode. The 3.5 GHz group was exposed using an omnidirectional microstrip antenna (Supplementary Fig. 1), operating at 22 dBm output power. The antenna provided by the Faculty of Electronics and Computer Technology and Engineering, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka. The 24 GHz exposed group utilized a 24 GHz Tuya WiFi Smart Human Presence Detector (Shenzhen, China), equipped with an LD2420 24G mmWave antenna capable of emitting a 24 GHz signal. This antenna operates at an 11 dBm output power and represents the higher end of the 5G technology spectrum, operating within the mmWaves radiation range.

The exposure model was designed to simulate realistic 5G environmental conditions10 using frequencies of 3.5 GHz (mid-band) and 24 GHz (high band) spectra allocated for 5G communication.10 Both frequencies were chosen to enable a comparative evaluation of their biological effects, as no prior study investigated pregnancy outcomes following paternal exposure at these frequencies.

The Control group was placed in the radiation room with the antenna or device used for the exposure set to inactive mode. The 3.5 GHz group was exposed using an omnidirectional microstrip antenna (Supplementary Fig. 1), operating at 22 dBm output power. The antenna provided by the Faculty of Electronics and Computer Technology and Engineering, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka. The 24 GHz exposed group utilized a 24 GHz Tuya WiFi Smart Human Presence Detector (Shenzhen, China), equipped with an LD2420 24G mmWave antenna capable of emitting a 24 GHz signal. This antenna operates at an 11 dBm output power and represents the higher end of the 5G technology spectrum, operating within the mmWaves radiation range.

Open access: https://ijmr.org.in/effects-of-5g-frequencies-on-sperm-parameters-mating-success-and-offspring-outcomes-in-rats/

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Differential Effects of 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz 5G Radiofrequency Exposure on Male Sexual Behaviour and Reproductive Endocrine Function in Rats

My note: Although this study tested the effects of two commonly-used 5G carrier frequencies, it used continuous wave signals so it was not a test of 5G.

Hairulazam A, Ibrahim SF, Osman K, Mokhtar MH, Zulkefli AF, Mat Ros MF, Jamaludin N, Syed Taha SMA, Vijay S, Zakaria Z, Mohd Bahar AA, Jaffar FHF. Differential Effects of 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz 5G Radiofrequency Exposure on Male Sexual Behaviour and Reproductive Endocrine Function in Rats. Int J Mol Sci. 2026 Aug 7;27(16):7102. doi: 10.3390/ijms27167102. 

Abstract

The rapid expansion of 5G technology has increased exposure to high-frequency radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), raising concerns about male reproductive health. This study investigated the effects of 5G frequencies at 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz on male libido, reproductive hormones, the testosterone-to-oestrogen (T/E) ratio, and androgen receptor expression in rats. Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to Control, 3.5 GHz, and 24 GHz (n = 6/group). Exposed groups received 7 h/day RF-EMF exposure for 60 consecutive days, while the Control underwent sham exposure. During the final week of exposure, mating behaviours were assessed using mount frequency, mount latency, intromission frequency, ejaculation latency, and post-ejaculatory interval. Serum testosterone and oestrogen levels, the T/E ratio and androgen receptor expression in the testis and hypothalamus were evaluated. The 3.5 GHz group demonstrated statistically significantly prolonged ejaculation latency (3480 ± 1576.956, p < 0.01, Hedges' g = 1.03) compared with the Control group. In contrast, 24 GHz exposure statistically significantly reduced mount frequency (4.80 ± 0.837, p < 0.01, Hedges' g = -0.65) and prolonged the post-ejaculatory interval (588.83 ± 206.41 s, p < 0.01, Hedges' g = 1.63) compared with the Control group. Hormonal analysis revealed statistically significant elevation of testosterone levels in the 3.5 GHz group, whereas the 24 GHz group showed statistically significant reductions in testosterone and oestrogen. Androgen receptor expression was unchanged. These findings suggest frequency-dependent effects of 5G RF-EMF on male libido and endocrine balance.

[3.5 GHz power density =  45.03 µW/cm².]

[24  GHz power density =  2.505 µW/cm².]

[FCC exposure limit = 1,0000 µW/cm².]

Conclusions

In conclusion, chronic exposure to 5G-related RF-EMF at 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz produced distinct alterations in male sexual behaviour, accompanied by different hormonal profiles. Exposure to 3.5 GHz was associated with elevated testosterone levels and prolonged ejaculation latency. On the other hand, exposure to 24 GHz was associated with reduced mounting activity, prolonged post-ejaculatory recovery, decreased oestrogen levels, and a lower T/E ratio. These findings suggest that different 5G frequencies may influence male reproductive function through distinct biological pathways rather than producing a uniform response. Although 24 GHz mmWaves exposure is generally characterised by superficial energy absorption and limited tissue penetration, the present findings demonstrate that measurable behavioural and endocrine alterations may still occur following chronic exposure under the conditions examined. While these results do not establish causality or indicate adverse reproductive outcomes in humans, they highlight the need for continued investigation of the biological effects of mmWaves frequencies, particularly as their use in wireless communication technologies continues to expand.

However, the current findings represent an exploratory investigation, particularly given the introduction of newer RF-EMF frequencies operating at different wavelengths and their potential biological interactions. Therefore, the observed changes should be interpreted cautiously and considered as preliminary observations that may provide a basis for future studies investigating the effects of emerging RF-EMF technologies on male reproductive behaviour and their underlying physiological mechanisms. Further investigations incorporating different exposure parameters, larger sample sizes, additional mechanistic endpoints, and refined experimental approaches will be necessary before definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding the potential effects of RF-EMF exposure on male sexual behaviour and reproductive function.

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/27/16/7102

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Moringa leaf mitigates 4G cell phone radiation-induced alterations in testicular histomorphometry and spermatogenesis during sexual maturation in Wistar rats

Ramalingam S, Somanath D. Moringa leaf mitigates 4G cell phone radiation-induced alterations in testicular histomorphometry and spermatogenesis during sexual maturation in Wistar rats. Anat Cell Biol. 2026 Sep 4. doi: 10.5115/acb.25.162. 

Abstract

The use of android phones is alarmingly increasing among the late juvenile and adolescent population. The infertility results from the detrimental effects of cell phone electromagnetic radiation (EMR) on spermatogenesis. This study aims to evaluate the protective effect of ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) in Wistar rat's testis against EMR from a 4G cell phone. Five sets of four-week-old male Wistar rats were created. Control group (n=3) with no cell phone; Sham group (n=3) with cell phone in switched-off mode; MOL-1 group (n=6) received 200 mg of ethanol extract of MOL per kg body weight per month. R1 group (n=6) exposed to 4G cell phone EMR for 96 minutes/day/one month; R1+MOL group (n=6) treated with MOL extract while exposed to EMR for one month. After the trial period, the rats were anesthetized and the testes were procured via trans-abdominal incision. The testes underwent routine histological processes for H&E staining. Histomorphometric analysis; quantitative evaluation of germ cells, Leydig cells, and seminiferous tubules; luminal and basal sperm head retention; Johnsen's biopsy score was done using H&E-stained slides. The Leydig cell count, the height of germinal epithelium, and the number of germ cells were significantly decreased in the R1 group (P<0.04). However, those variables were shielded from the EMR by MOL extract in the R1+MOL group (P<0.04). The ethanolic extract of MOL could safeguard the testis against the 4G cell phone EMR in young Wistar rats.

Open access: https://acbjournal.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.5115/acb.25.162

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Chronic paternal Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure impairs placental efficiency and fetal growth: Association with sex-dependent histone modification patterns in mice

Wang J, Gao L, Jin N, Yan S, Lei H, Ju Y, Chen S, Wang X. Chronic paternal Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure impairs placental efficiency and fetal growth: Association with sex-dependent histone modification patterns in mice. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2026 Sep 3;323:120751. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.120751. 

Abstract

The widespread use of Wi-Fi-derived radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) has raised concerns regarding male reproductive health; however, whether paternal exposure exerts transgenerational effects on offspring development remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of chronic paternal 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure (whole-body SAR 0.125-0.5 W/kg, 4 h/day, 6 days/week for 20 weeks) on sperm quality in F0 male mice and placental development in F1 offspring, with a focus on epigenetic regulation. Paternal RF-EMR exposure significantly reduced sperm concentration and increased the sperm abnormality rate in F0 males. F1 offspring exhibited reduced fetal weight and placental efficiency, with more pronounced impairments in male offspring. Mechanistically, paternal exposure reduced the proportion of placental labyrinth layer and downregulated multiple nutrient transporters in a male-biased manner. Epigenetic analysis revealed sex-dependent histone modifications in placentas following paternal RF-EMR exposure: male placentas exhibited increased H3K9me2/3, H3K27me3, H3K27ac, and H3K4me2, whereas female placentas exhibited decreased H3K4me2. ChIP-qPCR targeting transporter promoters revealed sex-specific enrichment of repressive histone marks in placentas from exposed fathers. In male placentas, H3K27me3 was increased at the Atp1a1 and Slc22a3 promoters, and H3K9me3 was increased at the Atp1a1 and Slc2a1 promoters. In female placentas, H3K27me3 at the Slc3a2 promoter was significantly decreased. Collectively, chronic paternal Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure impairs fetal growth and placental efficiency, with male offspring being more susceptible, and is associated with disrupted placental structure, impaired nutrient transport, and sex-dependent histone modifications in the offspring placenta. These findings underscore the importance of considering paternal RF-EMR exposure in reproductive risk assessment.

Highlights

• Chronic paternal RF-EMR impairs fetal growth and placental efficiency in a male-biased manner.
• Paternal RF-EMR downregulates placental nutrient transporters predominantly in male offspring.
• Paternal RF-EMR induces sex-dependent histone modifications in offspring placentas.
• Paternal RF-EMR drives male-specific enrichment of repressive histone marks at promoters of key placental nutrient transporter

Excerpt

A continuous wave (CW) signal generator (China Electronics Technology Instruments Co., Ltd., China), an amplifier (output power = 8.4 W; SWSPA-C200S/C-2, Chengdu SWIEE Power Electronics Technology Co., Ltd, China), and a horn antenna (gain: 8.94 dB, CW; LB-1080, A-INFO, China) were used to establish the Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure system. The electromagnetic radiation frequency was set at 2.4 GHz, and mice were allowed free movement within their cages during exposure. The whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR) was measured using a SAR meter (Narda SRM-3006, Narda-Storp, Germany) and calculated based on a prolate spheroidal model of a medium-sized mouse (Yan et al., 2022), yielding a whole-body SAR range of 0.125–0.5 W/kg across different positions within the exposure chamber. The uniformity of the electromagnetic field within the exposure chamber was verified to ensure consistent exposure across all cages.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that chronic paternal exposure to Wi-Fi-derived RF-EMR (2.4 GHz, whole-body SAR 0.125–0.5 W/kg, 20 weeks) impairs sperm quality in F0 male mice and adversely affects fetal growth and placental efficiency in F1 offspring in a sex-dependent manner, with male progeny exhibiting significantly greater susceptibility. Specifically, male offspring showed more pronounced reductions in placental efficiency and labyrinth layer proportion, accompanied by broader downregulation of nutrient transporters. Concordantly, paternal RF-EMR exposure induced extensive sex-specific alterations in placental histone modifications in males—elevated H3K27ac, H3K27me3, H3K9me2/3, and H3K4me2—whereas female placentas exhibited only decreased H3K4me2. Mechanistically, ChIP-qPCR revealed a sex-specific enrichment of repressive histone marks at transporter promoters: compared with the sham-exposed group, male placentas from the paternal RF-EMR exposure group displayed increased H3K27me3 occupancy at Atp1a1 and Slc22a3, and elevated H3K9me3 at Atp1a1 and Slc2a1, whereas female placentas showed only decreased H3K27me3 at Slc3a2. Collectively, these findings indicate that male offspring are more vulnerable to adverse intrauterine programming following chronic paternal Wi-Fi RF-EMR exposure, and that sex-dependent epigenetic dysregulation—particularly at the level of placental histone modifications and nutrient transporter expression—likely contributes to the male-biased impairments in fetal development. This study highlights the importance of incorporating offspring sex as a key biological variable in reproductive risk assessments of paternal RF-EMR exposure and raises important considerations for preconception health guidance in occupationally exposed populations.

Open access: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014765132601081X?via%3Dihub

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Effects of chronic single- and dual-band radiofrequency exposure on spatial learning and memory retention in growing male rats 

Boumaiza S, Bouzidi A, Bouharati S, Ferahtia A, Abed H.  Effects of chronic single- and dual-band radiofrequency exposure on spatial learning and memory retention in growing male rats. Revista CientíFica 2026; 36 (3): e363968.

Abstract

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields have become increasingly present in daily life due to the widespread use of wireless technologies. However, their long–term effects on cognitive functions remain insufficiently understood, particularly under repeated multi–frequency exposure conditions. This study investigated the effects of chronic exposure to 800 MHz, 900 MHz, and sequential 800/900 MHz RF fields on spatial learning and memory in growing male Wistar rats. Animals were divided into four groups: sham–exposed, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, and sequential 800/900 MHz exposure. Exposures were administered 6 days per week for 4 months. Spatial learning and memory were assessed using the Morris water maze. During the acquisition phase, rats underwent four trials per day for five consecutive days, and escape latency was recorded. Memory retention was evaluated during the probe trial by measuring time spent in the target quadrant and platform–site crossings. Escape latency significantly decreased across training days in all groups, indicating preserved acquisition learning. No significant effect of exposure was observed during the acquisition phase. In contrast, probe trial analysis revealed a significant reduction in target–quadrant time in the sequential 800/900 MHz group compared with sham–exposed and 800 MHz animals, whereas platform–site crossings were not significantly affected. Overall, chronic radiofrequency exposure did not impair spatial learning acquisition, but sequential exposure to 800 and 900 MHz was associated with reduced spatial memory retention.

Open access: https://produccioncientificaluz.org/index.php/cientifica/article/view/46130/55835

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Environmental monitoring of static magnetic fields around operating high-voltage direct-current transmission facilities in Japan

Kawabe F, Muroya S, Ohkubo C. Environmental monitoring of static magnetic fields around operating high-voltage direct-current transmission facilities in Japan. Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2026. doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncag089.

Abstract

Static magnetic fields are present around high-voltage direct-current transmission facilities, but on-land environmental measurement data under actual operating conditions remain limited. This study measured three-axis magnetic flux densities at 1.0 m above ground at 38 accessible locations around all four operating direct-current transmission links in Japan, including overhead-line and underground-cable sections. Resultant magnetic flux densities ranged from 39.7 to 154.8 μT (1548 milligauss), while measured local geomagnetic-field levels ranged from 46.6 to 50.6 μT. The maximum value was observed above the Anan-Kihoku Link underground-cable section and was far below the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) reference level for general public exposure to static magnetic fields. Lateral-profile measurements showed that values near the lines or cable routes diminished to local geomagnetic-field levels within several tens of metres. Geomagnetic-field-aware calculations were generally consistent with representative measured profiles, although underground-cable comparisons were sensitive to cable-centreline uncertainty. These data support static magnetic-field exposure assessment around operating direct-current transmission facilities.

Open access paper: https://doi.org/10.1093/rpd/ncag089

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Impact of ELF EMF exposure on sleep quality and mental health in a Tunisian power plant: a cross-sectional study

Kacem I, Jammeli I, C, Gaddour A, Makhloufi M, Aloui A, Chouchane A, Maalel OE, Kahloul M, Mrizak N (2026) Impact of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields exposure on sleep quality and mental health in a Tunisian power plant: a cross-sectional study. Front. Psychiatry 17:1755918. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1755918.

Abstract

Introduction: Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) are ubiquitous in our daily life. They may have an impact not only on physical health but also on mental health.

Objectives: To assess the impact of occupational exposure to the ELF-EMFs on sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress among workers at the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (TEGC).Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The study population included two groups: an exposed group (EG), consisting of power plant employees, and a non-exposed group (NEG), consisting of administrative workers. Exposure to ELF-EMFs was assessed via spot measurements using a magnetometer. Sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress were assessed by the French versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21).

Results: Seventy-seven participants in the EG and 88 participants in the NEG were included in the study. The median value of the ELF-EMFs was 5.86 μT at the power plant [min 0.1, max 40.34 μT]. According to the PSQI global score, 64.9% of the EG had poor sleep quality versus 29.5% of the NEG. Depression was registered in 24.7% of EG and in 3.4% of NEG. Anxiety was noted in 23.4% of the EG and in none of the NEG. Stress was found in 46.8% of the EG and none of the NEG. After multivariate analysis, ELF-EMF exposure was significantly associated with poor sleep quality and depression.

Conclusion: The present study revealed that ELF-EMFs can affect sleep and mental health. Further studies are needed to explain the mechanism involved.

Open access: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1755918/

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Stepwise sweeping-frequency ELF MF exposure and MTT-derived signal in U251 glioblastoma cells

Zastko L, Petrovičová P, Tvarožná A,et al. Stepwise sweeping-frequency ELF MF exposure and MTT-derived signal in U251 glioblastoma cells. (2026). Sci Rep. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-67313-3.

Abstract

Extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF MF) have been reported to elicit parameter-dependent cellular responses, although experimental outcomes remain variable across biological models and exposure conditions. In this exploratory study, we evaluated the utility of a precisely characterized stepwise sweeping-frequency ELF MF (3–26 Hz) exposure system as a systematic in vitro screening platform under well-controlled exposure conditions. U251 human glioblastoma cells were exposed for 24 h to defined MF amplitudes (6–24 µT), followed by a 24 h post-exposure incubation period. Normalized MTT-derived signal was quantified using a standard MTT assay and calculated relative to exposure-specific and sham controls ( = 3 independent experiments). Direct comparisons between complementary ELF MF-exposed and sham-exposed samples, representing the primary biological comparison of the study, did not reveal statistically significant differences under the present experimental conditions. As secondary analyses, comparisons with the respective control groups showed differences in normalized MTT-derived of approximately 10–15% at several magnetic field amplitudes (6, 10, 13, and 24 µT). These observations were restricted to selected exposure conditions and did not follow a monotonic relationship across the investigated magnetic field amplitudes. Overall, the results demonstrate the utility of the present protocol as an exploratory in vitro screening platform for systematic evaluation of a broad range of exposure conditions and identification of conditions suitable for subsequent targeted mechanistic investigations.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the utility of a stepwise sweeping-frequency ELF MF exposure protocol as an exploratory in vitro screening platform for systematic assessment of a broad range of exposure conditions under a rigorously characterized experimental framework. The primary comparisons between complementary exposed and sham-exposed samples did not reveal statistically significant differences, whereas secondary control-based analyses identified differences at selected magnetic field amplitudes. The principal contribution of the study is therefore methodological: the platform enables controlled preliminary screening of exposure conditions that may subsequently be examined using frequency- and amplitude-specific designs, complementary biological endpoints, and targeted mechanistic approaches.

Open access: https://rdcu.be/fBMYb

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Impacts of Geomagnetic and Man-Made Electromagnetic Fields on Heart Rate and Its Variability in Healthy Adults: A Scoping Review

Fadlou Allah T, Wexler B, Green DM, Patel YN, Chen J, Mayrovitz HN. Impacts of Geomagnetic and Man-Made Electromagnetic Fields on Heart Rate and Its Variability in Healthy Adults: A Scoping Review. Cureus. 2026 Aug 12;18(8):e114429. doi: 10.7759/cureus.114429. 

Abstract

Geomagnetic and man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) have been reported to influence blood pressure and to represent a cardiovascular risk factor for various conditions. However, the effects of these fields on heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) remain inconclusive, with reports both supporting and refuting these effects. This scoping review aims to synthesize current evidence on the impact of exposure to geomagnetic and man-made EMFs on HR and HRV in healthy adults. A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted using the Population-Concept-Context (PCC) framework, following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Eligible studies included English-language, peer-reviewed observational, experimental, or analytical cross-sectional designs published from January 2000 to June 2026 that assessed HR or HRV responses to these fields in healthy or asymptomatic adults. Database searching was supplemented by reference review and an updated search of the same databases. After two-stage screening and duplicate removal, 29 studies were included, which varied substantially in exposure type, field intensity, exposure duration, HRV metrics, sample size, and analytic approach. Reported effects were inconsistent and were often limited to transient changes in selected HRV indices rather than consistent changes in HR. Geomagnetic and local magnetic field studies more often reported associations with HRV, hemodynamic variation, or HR/HRV synchronization, but these findings were heterogeneous and of uncertain clinical significance. Overall, evidence from the studies reviewed does not confirm a consistent effect of geomagnetic or man-made EMF exposure on either HR or HRV in otherwise healthy adults.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42730093/

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Quantum nanorotator in the field: Implications for magnetobiology

Binhi VN. Quantum nanorotator in the field: Implications for magnetobiology. Phys Rev E. 2026 Jul;114(1-1):014406. doi: 10.1103/8wry-pznb. 

Abstract

A mechanism for the biological effects of the field is proposed, based on the rotational motion of a molecule as a whole within a cavity in an enzyme. It has been shown previously that a molecular rotator about 1 nm in size can have a decoherence time of up to tens of milliseconds. On shorter timescales, the nanorotator exists in a state of quantum superposition and exhibits interference effects. The statics and dynamics of the nanorotator in a magnetic field are analyzed using the Schrödinger and Liouville-von Neumann equations, taking into account chemical kinetics and thermal relaxation. It is demonstrated that the small-scale interference of the nanorotator is highly sensitive to weak magnetic fields. The quantum shows magnetic effects ranging from a few to several tens of percent over a wide range of realistic decoherence rates. If the nanorotator constitutes an adequate model of rotating amino acid residues in the active sites of certain enzymes involved in protein synthesis, then weak magnetic fields can exert significant biological effects, leading to the observed phenomena.

We proposed a mechanism for the influence of a field on biological systems, based on the quantum behavior of a nanoscopic molecular rotator. The calculation of magnetic effects was performed by applying a solution of the Liouville–von Neumann equation, standard in spin chemistry, to a molecular rotator of about 1 nm in size. In this mechanism, the rate of chemical reaction is governed not by spin prohibitions but by regular rotational dynamics.

It was shown that magnetic effects up to several tens of percent arise due to modulation of the quantum interference pattern in very weak MFs and are relatively robust to decoherence. The temperature factor not only promotes decoherence, as is typical, but also enables the very existence of magnetic effects by facilitating the emergence of a fine-structured magnetosensitive interference pattern prior to the onset of decoherence.

With realistic values of model parameters, the rotator probability density rotates in a weak MF a few degrees, which could allow interpreting various phenomena in magnetobiology.

The quantum rotator mechanism suggests that evolutionary adaptation renders organisms able to use the GMF for improved biosynthesis. A reduction to HMF levels results in increased errors in biosynthesis and the associated negative outcomes.

The high sensitivity of the rotator mechanism arises because the MF affects the phases of the wave functions rather than the energy of the magnetic moment. The physical limit that sets the minimal MF for the effect to occur takes the form if (a typically biological process) is embedded in the system. The molecular rotator is not just a rotator obeying the laws of quantum physics, but a nanoscopic system in which quantum effects may become observable under biological conditions. This is one of the cases where quantum effects are not merely preserved in a biological system but arise precisely because of it. The peculiarities of nanorotator dynamics, leading to an extreme responsiveness of the interference pattern to parameter variations (to MF variations in particular), may represent a previously unstudied resource of biology.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42629871/

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The effects of external electric fields on proteins

Cifra M, Pandey SK, Zakar T, Poplová M, Blanco Campoy DG, Průša J, Havelka D, Marracino P, Liberti M, Apollonio F, English NJ, Caleman C, Marklund EG. The effects of external electric fields on proteins. Chem Soc Rev. 2026 Jul 20;55(14):7568-7616. doi: 10.1039/d3cs00244f. 

Abstract

Proteins are highly abundant and, as a biomolecular class, have very versatile functions in living systems. Protein structures contain electrically charged residues and proteins’ electrostatics are crucial for their function. Although protein activity is commonly modulated through a variety of ligands and post-translational modifications, an external electric field (EF) represents an alternative, physical approach. By exerting forces on charged and dipolar regions, EFs can reshape the energetic landscape and dynamic behavior of proteins. This approach offers a mass-free, rapidly switchable, spatially precise, non-contact, and reagent-free way to control protein conformation and function – features increasingly appealing for applications in green bioprocessing, neuromodulation, ultrafast structural biology, and in studying proteins without clearly ligandable sites. Despite the growing evidence for diverse and reversible control of proteins by EF, the mechanisms are still underexplored and applications have not yet grown to their full potential. This review focuses on molecular mechanisms and integrates the findings of the effects of external EFs on proteins from both computational simulations and experimental studies. The literature shows that the EF acts on protein charged and dipolar groups, and when the EF parameters are well tailored, the EF consequently triggers effects on protein rigid body motion, secondary structure, tertiary structure, quaternary structure and molecular conformation, ultimately leading to changes in protein interactions and function (enzymatic, ion channelling, switching, …). These effects are being utilized not only on proteins as food components but also for bionanotechnological applications, e.g. in membrane proteins for controlling their transport properties, and in structural and force-generating proteins to steer self-assembly pathways and dynamic behavior. The compiled evidence clarifies key mechanisms by which EFs influence proteins and identifies promising directions for biomedical, food-processing, and biotechnological applications.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41995174/

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Effect of IoT Devices on Animals

Sharma N. (2026). Effect of IoT Devices on Animals. In W. Ameur & A. Arbi (Eds.), Harnessing AI for Human-Animal Communication (pp. 225-238). IGI Global Scientific Publishing. doi: 10.4018/979-8-3373-5483-5.ch009.

Abstract

IOT devices are often in the vicinity of animals. IOT devices on animals are used for experimentation and monitoring purposes. This chapter discusses the effect of different radiations emitted from IoT devices on animals. The specific animals in focus are rats, mice and chickens. There are different short-range and long-range frequency-based radiations emitted from IoT devices. The current literature discusses the experiments conducted on these animals and the duration of exposure to radiation. The literature review provides evidence regarding their effect on different classes of animals. These effects also depend upon the type of animal and the duration of exposure to radiations. The rats showed memory, blood, brain, cell loss, learning related effects. The mouse or mice showed reduced calcium absorption, memory loss, behavioral, anxiety-related,carcinogens-related changes. The chickens showed effect on neurons and blood-brain integrity changes. There were also studies which did not point to any drastic changes in these animals.https://www.igi-global.com/gateway/chapter/401958

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Conflicting views in experimental carcinogenesis: a commentary on design and methodological deficiencies in the follow-up validation studies on radiofrequency radiation

Melnick RL, Moskowitz JM, Héroux P on behalf of International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields. Conflicting views in experimental carcinogenesis: a commentary on design and methodological deficiencies in the follow-up validation studies on radiofrequency radiation. Environ Health 25, 66 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12940-026-01324-5.

Abstract

Conflicting views in experimental carcinogenesis often arise due to differences in study design among reported studies. For carcinogenicity assessments, regulatory agencies, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and intergovernmental advisory organizations, such as the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), specify the use of at least three dose levels plus control group for trend analyses, with the highest dose inducing a measurable toxic response. In addition, there needs to be a sufficient number of animals per group to have adequate power to detect a true carcinogenic effect. Departure from such recommendations can weaken the interpretations of study results. We examine here two recent carcinogenicity studies from Japan and Korea that were conducted following the positive carcinogenicity study of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) in experimental animals by the National Toxicology Program (NTP). The Japan and Korea follow-up studies used fewer animals per group, a single RFR exposure group, and a lower exposure level than the NTP study. Not surprisingly, while the NTP study revealed the carcinogenicity of RFR, the Japanese and Korean studies, which had reduced statistical power compared to the NTP study, issued conclusions conflicting with those of the more substantial NTP study on the health effects of RFR. In general, carcinogenicity studies with weaker doses, fewer exposure groups, and reduced statistical power should not be used to test the validity of more robust studies.

Excerpt

Despite the numerous limitations in their study design, the authors of the Japan-Korea studies concluded there is “no reproducible carcinogenic potential of mobile phone-type RF exposure in rats,” and that alternatives to the ICNIRP “recommend[ed] exposure limits for RF radiation based on thermal effects” are inconclusive [3]. These statements reflect ideological support for ICNIRP’s thermal-only mechanism of adverse effects and its repeated dismissal of the validity of the NTP carcinogenicity studies (e.g [12]). The project’s principal investigator is a member of ICNIRP, and the advisory committee that provided oversight and guidance throughout this project was heavily represented by current and past members of ICNIRP, suggesting a strong influence of ICNIRP in the design and interpretation of these studies.

In conclusion, methodological shortcomings due to the design choices in the Japan–Korea studies, specifically the restriction to a single exposure group of 4 W/kg of CDMA-modulated RFR and reduced statistical power, systematically biased the study toward null results and eliminated the possibility of detecting a positive trend. Consequently, these findings cannot be used to reasonably refute the peer-reviewed evidence of toxicity and carcinogenicity of CDMA- and GSM-modulated RFR in the NTP studies, nor to reinforce ICNIRP’s thermal-based exposure limits. It is also important to note that the increases in schwannomas and gliomas reported in experimental studies of RF-EMF are of the same tumor types (glioma and vestibular schwannoma) that were increased in epidemiological studies in which brain cancer risk was increased among heavy users of mobile phones [13]. The example described in this commentary demonstrates how limited and divergent experimental designs and potential biases in the interpretation of experimental carcinogenicity results can lead to conflicting views on the health effects of RFR.

Open access: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12940-026-01324-5