Science Journal Articles

Letter to the Editor, Environment International ‘Available evidence shows adverse symptoms from acute non-thermal RF-EMF exposure’.

This review (Bosch-Capblanch et al., 2024) states in its Interpretation that “available evidence” suggests that acute non-thermal RF-EMF “does not cause symptoms”. However, this unqualified broad claim, while arguably valid if it had been limited to the 41 mainly...

Evaluation and SAR Analysis of Low Frequency and Broadband Electric Field Exposure Measurement Values in the Home Environment

Abstract: In this study, the effective value of low-frequency (50 Hz) and high-frequency (700–2500 MHz) broadband electric field exposures was measured for 24 h in four different selected environments in a house. All the statistical values of 1000 data points recorded...

Digital Screen Time and the Risk of Female Breast Cancer

In recent groundbreaking research, Dr. Alireza Mortazavi and his supervisors at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences have unveiled potential health implications that could affect millions. Their study explores a concerning link between digital screen time and breast cancer risk.

The European Union prioritises economics over health in the rollout of radiofrequency technologies

The fifth generation of radiofrequency communication, 5G, is currently being rolled out worldwide. Since September 2017, the EU 5G Appeal has been sent six times to the EU, requesting a moratorium on the rollout of 5G. This article reviews the 5G Appeal and the EU’s subsequent replies, including the extensive cover letter sent to the EU in September 2021, requesting stricter guidelines for exposures to radiofrequency radiation (RFR).

EMR Measurements in NZ

This article provides a summary and analysis of official compliance measurements done in New Zealand and shows the levels around cell towers is increasing over time.

Electromagnetic fields disrupt the pollination service by honeybees

We assessed the effect that electromagnetic field (EMF) exerts on honeybees’ pollination efficiency using field and laboratory experiments. Our study provides conclusive evidence of detrimental impacts of EMF on honeybee’s pollination behavior, leading to negative effects on plant community.

Mobile Phone Use and Risks of Overall and 25 Site-specific Cancers: A Prospective Study from the UK Biobank Study 

The association between mobile phone use and incident cancers remains uncertain. We aimed to investigate the relationships of mobile phone use with incident overall and 25 site-specific cancers in men and women. Our findings underscore the importance of limiting mobile phone use or keeping a distance from mobile phone for primary prevention of NMSC and prostate cancer.

Smart Meters – Smarter Practices Document

Introduction Problems reported worldwide with Smart Meters and related technology may (without appropriate action) occur in future rollouts and could generate health, legal, security and infrastructure difficulties unless appropriate measures are taken.

Effects of Unregulated Digitalization on Health and Democracy – A Call for Using Technology with Discernment

We are contemporary witnesses to the accelerated implementation of the Fourth Industrial Revolution with central stakeholders aiming at the digital transformation of all areas of life and production. The digital transformation is an ideology and a hype. It is also a vehicle for total surveillance and control if not restricted and regulated pro-perly. It is essential to pause and to analyze the Fourth Industrial Revolution in a rational way.

RF Health Safety Limits and Recommendations

The rapid proliferation of cellular mobile telecommunication devices and systems is raising public health concerns about the biological effects and safety of RF radiation exposure. There is also concern about the efficacy of promulgated health safety limits, rules, and recommendations for the RF radiation used by these devices and systems.

Nordic Appeal: More Stringent Regulatory Framework on Microwave Radiationfrom Wireless Technologies is Needed – Stop Further Rollout of 5G

Given what is known today about the risks of this technology, it must be considered a violation of human rights to impose this harmful radiation on people in their own homes without their informed consent. More stringent regulatory framework on microwave radiation from wireless technologies is urgently needed. In the meantime, further rollout of 5G must be stopped.

Cellular and molecular effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields

The concept that biological response to EMF is a ‘cellular stress response’ explains many observed effects of EMF, such as nonlinear dose- and time-dependency, increased and decreased risks of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, enhanced nerve regeneration, and bone healing. These responses could be either detrimental or beneficial to health, depending on the duration and intensity of the exposure, as well as specific aspects of the living organism being exposed.

On the Clear Evidence of the Risks to Children from Non-Ionizing Radio Frequency Radiation: The Case of Digital Technologies in the Home, Classroom and Society

This brief research review aims to inform by presenting the findings of scientific research, in a balanced, objective manner, on the risks to children. This information is based on proven scientific theories and clear empirical evidence. The paper concludes by offering practical advice on how the risks to children, and indeed adults, can be minimised.

On radar and radio exposure and cancer in the military setting

The findings from our study add to the growing body of evidence underscoring the gross inadequacy of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) thermal standards. Based on our findings and on the previous accumulated research, we endorse the recommendations to reclassify RFR exposure as a human carcinogen, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) group 1.

Carcinogenesis from chronic exposure to radio-frequency radiation

There are consistent indications from epidemiological studies and animal investigations that RF exposure is probably carcinogenic to humans. The principle of ALARA—as low as reasonably achievable—ought to be adopted as a strategy for RF health and safety protection.

ICNIRP’s wireless radiation exposure limits are based on smoke and mirrors

A new peer-reviewed paper published in the journal, Reviews of Environmental Health, found that the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) bases its recommended exposure limits for wireless (i.e., radio frequency [RF]) radiation primarily on research produced by its own members, their former students and close colleagues.

Our Bacteria: Are They Trying to Tell us Something? – Olle Johansson, Associate Professor

A US DARPA-funded study* has found that bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, biofilms communicate using frequencies that are in the range that are used by Wi-Fi and 5G C-band. The experiment found that “notable radiation is observed in the 3-4 GHz band” coming from the Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. It is part of a dangerous development I, Olle Johansson, have tried to emphasize and warn about for decades.

Threshold of radiofrequency electromagnetic field effect on human brain

The indication that the changes in EEG caused by RF EMF appeared similar to these in depression need a special attention. The fast increase of depression with the highest prevalence among young individuals and more intense use of mobile telecommunication technology with prevalence in young people during the same period needs attention. The possible causal relationship between RF EMF effect and depression among young people is the problem of high importance. The methodology and large-scale investigations in this direction are required.

Measurements of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, including 5G, in the city of Columbia, SC, USA

A number of hotspots were found where cell phone base station antennas were mounted on top of the utility poles and therefore positioned at low levels, close to street level. On the whole, the findings of the present study suggest that cell phone base station antennas should be distinct and noticeable, as this would assist individuals who need to limit their exposure by distancing themselves from RF sources.

Powerlines, household wiring and cancer risks

Can magnetic fields from powerlines, household wiring, appliances and other electrical equipment increase a person’s risk of cancer? That’s the question that Professor Massimo Maffei, from the Department of Science at the University of Turin in Italy, has answered in a paper published recently in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Associations Between a Polymorphism in the Rat 5-HT1A Receptor Gene Promoter Region (rs198585630) and Cognitive Alterations Induced by Microwave Exposure

nervous system is a sensitive target of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Chronic microwave exposure can induce cognitive deficits, and 5-HT system is involved in this effect. Genetic polymorphisms lead to individual differences. In this study, we evaluated whether the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs198585630 of 5-HT1A receptor is associated with cognitive alterations in rats after microwave exposure with a frequency of 2.856 GHz and an average power density of 30 mW/cm2.

Longitudinal study of exposure to radio frequencies at population scale

Evaluating exposure to radio frequencies (RF) at population-scale is important for conducting sound epidemiological studies about possible health impact of RF radiations. Numerous studies reported population exposure to RF radiations used in wireless telecommunication technologies, but used very small population samples.

Human‑made electromagnetic fields: Ion forced‑oscillation and voltage‑gated ion channel dysfunction, oxidative stress and DNA damage (Review)

The long-existing experimental and epidemiological findings connecting exposure to human-made EMFs and DNA damage, infertility and cancer, are now explained by the presented complete mechanism. The present study should provide a basis for further research and encourage health authorities to take measures for the protection of life on Earth against unrestricted use of human-made EMFs.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, part 1. Rising ambient EMF levels in the environment

Ambient levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last 80 years, creating a novel energetic exposure that previously did not exist. Most recent decades have seen exponential increases in nearly all environments, including rural/remote areas and lower atmospheric regions. Because of unique physiologies, some species of flora and fauna are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that may surpass human reactivity.

Electromagnetic fields and miscarriage

Could power-frequency magnetic fields and wireless radiation from mobile phones and other communications equipment be risk factors for miscarriage? The answer is yes, according to new research published in the journal Open Medicine.

The science of spin: targeted strategies to manufacture doubt with detrimental effects on environmental and public health

The telecommunications industry has adopted strategies used by other industries that market products which pollute the environment and harm the health of humans and other species. The Telecom industry utilize all 28 of the unique tactics discussed in this paper to manufacture doubt about the preponderance of the peer-reviewed science which finds exposure to low-intensity wireless radiation harmful, and to justify the continued adoption of inadequate radio frequency safety limits by the WHO and most national governments.

Planetary electromagnetic pollution: it is time to assess its impact

At a time when environmental health scientists tackle serious global issues such as climate change and chemical toxicants in public health, there is an urgent need to address so-called electrosmog. A genuine evidence-based approach to the risk assessment and regulation of anthropogenic electromagnetic fields will help the health of us all, as well as that of our planetary home.

‘Proof of EHS beyond all reasonable doubt’. Comment on: Leszczynski D. Review of the scientific evidence on the individual sensitivity to electromagnetic fields (EHS).

Leszczynski’s review included two important conclusions. Firstly, the need for the WHO, ICNIRP, ICES and governmental organisations to revise their denial of the link between EHS and electromagnetic fields (EMFs) because the data is of insufficient quality for proof of the lack of causality. Secondly, instead of studying a nocebo effect, research should focus on finding “suitable biochemical and biophysical markers” for symptoms in each EHS individual.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, Part 2 impacts: how species interact with natural and man-made EMF

It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as ‘habitat’ so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced.

Combined Effects of Pesticides and Electromagnetic-Fields on Honeybees: Multi-Stress Exposure

In this research, the combined effects of two possible stress sources for bees, pesticides and electromagnetic fields (multi-stress conditions) were analyzed by a field trial. After one year of monitoring, a complex picture of several induced effects was present, especially in the multi-stress site, such as disease appearance (American foulbrood), higher mortality in the underbaskets (common to pesticide-stress site), behavioral alterations (queen changes, excess of both drone-brood deposition and honey storage) and biochemical anomalies (higher ALP activity at the end of the season). The multi-stress site showed the worst health condition of the bee colonies, with only one alive at the end of the experimentation out of the four ones present at the beginning.

Smart devices/mobile phone in patients with epilepsy? A systematic review

Among school students, an association was found between reporting seizures and the hours of smart technology device use. While high-quality evidence on the safety of the use of smartphone, mobile phone/Internet, and Wi-Fi in PWE is lacking, prudent use of these technologies, including using wired hand-free sets or other exposure-reducing measures is recommended.

Nonmalignant meningioma and vestibular schwannoma incidence trends in the United States, 2004-2017

The smartphone started to become popular in the U.S. in 2007 with the first iPhone and in 2008 with Android phones. In many smartphones the cellular transmission antennas are located in the bottom of the handset so the neck, not the head, is likely to receive the greatest microwave radiation exposure among those who place the phone by their ear. Two case-control studies found an association between thyroid cancer and mobile phone use, and thyroid cancer incidence has been rapidly increasing in many countries including the U.S.

Review of the scientific evidence on the individual sensitivity to electromagnetic fields (EHS)

The opinion that there is no causality link between EHS and EMF is unproven. This opinion, expressed by the World Health Organization EMF Project, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, International Committee on Electromagnetic Safety and numerous governmental organizations, should be revised because the scientific research data is of insufficient quality to be used as a proof of the lack of causality.

Wireless radiation and the nervous system

WLAN (wireless local area network) is used as an important worldwide communication-technique. By this, always there
is an electromagnetic field exposure. In contrast to the ICNIRP-safety guidelines, whereby no bioeffect is possible by these
low-energetic electromagnetic fields, we found artificial signals in the nervous system in dependence on WLAN- exposure.

EUROPAEM EMF Guideline 2016 for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of EMF-related health problems and illnesses

Chronic diseases and illnesses associated with non-specific symptoms are on the rise. In addition to chronic stress in social and work environments, physical and chemical exposures at home, at work, and during leisure activities are causal or contributing environmental stressors that deserve attention by the general practitioner as well as by all other members of the health care community. It seems necessary now to take “new exposures” like electromagnetic fields (EMF) into account.

5G Risk: The Scientific Perspective

5G Risk: The Scientific Perspective Book. Compelling Evidence for eight Distinct Types of Great Harm Caused by Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Exposures and the Mechanism that Causes Them

Written and Compiled by Martin L. Pall, PhD. Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Basic Medical Sciences – Washington State University

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, part 1. Rising ambient EMF levels in the environment

Ambient background levels of EMF have risen sharply in the last four decades, creating a novel energetic exposure that previously did not exist at the Earth’s surface, lower atmospheric levels, or underwater environments. Recent decades have seen exponential increases in nearly all environments, including remote regions. There are unique signaling characteristics inherent to 5G transmission as currently designed of particular concern to non-human species. Background levels continue to rise but no one is studying cumulative effects to nonhuman species.

Cellular Phone Use and Risk of Tumors: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The takeaway message from our new study is we found evidence that linked cellular phone use to increased tumor risk. Based on our meta-analysis, 1,000 or more hours of cell phone use, or about 17 minutes per day over 10 years, was associated with a statistically significant 60% increase in brain tumor risk.

Research Studies on Impacts to the Environment from Wireless: Trees, Plants, Pollinators, Birds and Wildlife

FCC and ICNIRP limits were not developed to protect our flora or fauna. Wireless radiation “safety” limits for trees, plants, birds and bees simply do not exist. No US agency nor international authority with expertise in science, biology or safety has ever acted to review research and set safety limits for birds, bees, trees and wildlife. It is a major gap in accountability.

Manmade Electromagnetic Fields and Oxidative Stress—Biological Effects and Consequences for Health

A trend is emerging, which becomes clear even when taking these methodological weaknesses into account, i.e., that EMF exposure, even in the low dose range, may well lead to changes in cellular oxidative balance. Organisms and cells are able to react to oxidative stress, and many observations after EMF exposure point to an adaptation after a recovery phase. Adverse conditions, such as diseases (diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases), compromise the body’s defense mechanisms, including antioxidant protection mechanisms, and individuals with such pre-existing conditions are more likely to experience health effects. The studies show that very young or old individuals can react less efficiently to oxidative stress, which of course also applies to other stressors that cause oxidative stress.

Exposure to cell phone radiations produces biochemical changes in worker honey bees

Very little work has been done on biochemical, metabolic and physiological influences of cell phone radiations pertaining to health risk in man. Therefore, the present investigations on the influence of cell phone radiations on some biochemical and physiological aspects of honeybee biology were undertaken. That the behavior of honeybee is altered to some extent by high or low energy fields or electromagnetic radiations has been known for quite some time.

Increased aggression and reduced aversive learning in honey bees exposed to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields

Results indicate that short-term exposure to ELF EMFs, at levels that could be encountered in bee hives placed under power lines, reduced aversive learning and increased aggression levels. These behavioural changes could have wider ecological implications in terms of the ability of bees to interact with, and respond appropriately to, threats and negative environmental stimuli.

Follow Us

Social Media to keep up to date with the latest news and views

Donate

Support STANZ in its Mission to make Aotearoa New Zealand safe for people and the environment

Join Our Newsletter

Keep up to date with our quarterly newsletter summarising the most important news, views and campaign actions