Recent Advances in Research on Radiofrequency Fields and Health: 2004–2007

Abstract

The widespread use of wireless telecommunications devices, particularly mobile phones and wireless networks, has resulted in increased human exposure to radiofrequency (RF) fields. Although national and international agencies have established safety guidelines for exposure to RF fields, concerns remain about the potential for adverse health outcomes to occur in relation to RF field exposure. The extensive literature on RF fields and health was reviewed by a number of authorities, including the Royal Society of Canada (1999). This report is the third in a series of updates to the original report of the Royal Society of Canada, covering the period 2004-2007. In particular, the present study examined new data on (1) dosimetry and exposure assessment, (2) biological effects of RF fields such as enzyme induction, and (3) toxicological effects, including genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. Epidemiological studies of the potential health effects of RF exposure, particularly from mobile phones, were determined, along with human and animal studies of neurological and behavioural effects. Within the last 4 yrs investigators concluded that there is no clear evidence of adverse health effects associated with RF fields, although continued research is recommended to address specific areas of concern, including exposure to RF fields among children using mobile phones. The results of the ongoing 13-country World Health Organization INTERPHONE study of mobile phones may provide important new information on the potential cancer risks associated with mobile phone use.

Cell phones and glioma risk: a review of the evidence

“…However, given the inconclusive nature of even the long term data, the best course of action is to pursue further studies and to execute these according to a standardized design. Moreover, in view of the conflicting epidemiological data, some researchers including the present authors suggest that cell phone use certainly continue, but that users might wish to consider using headsets if feasible to reduce EMF exposure, and that heavy cell phone use in children and young teens be avoided if at all possible [44].…”

Lymphoma development of simultaneously combined exposure to two radiofrequency signals in AKR/J mice

“…A few epidemiological studies suggest a relationship between the use of mobile phones and melanoma induction [Stang et al, 2009] or malignant brain tumors [Lonn et al, 2005;Myung et al, 2009]. However, the overall literature does not provide persuasive epidemiological evidence that mobile phone-related emissions are carcinogenic, although mobile phones have not been in use long enough to exclude a long-term impact on health [Hoskote et al, 2008;Habash et al, 2009;Kundi, 2009].…”

“…The main concerns focus on the possible carcinogenic or cancer-promoting effects of mobile phones and base stations [Moulder et al, 2005;Krewski et al, 2007;Habash et al, 2009]. However, so far it is unclear if non-thermal exposure has a direct influence on public health.…”

The Phenomenon of Wireless Energy Transfer: Experiments and Philosophy

“…Besides, added to the debate, is the concern for the wireless energy transfer mechanisms working with electromagnetic signals. Several studies have been completed (Breckenkamp et al (2009);Habash et al (2009)) about the effects of electromagnetic waves, in particular for cellular phones, verifying that just at the upper international security levels some effects to genes are noticed. In (Peter A. Valberg & Repacholi (2007)) is assured that it is not yet possible to determine health effects either on short or long terms due by the exposition to electromagnetic waves like the ones emitted by broadcasting stations and cellular networks.…”