Well being Effects of EMF Radiation

The radiation RF-EMF causes damage to DNA, increase the temperature of tissues, and disrupt the blood brain barrier. These effects are real and ARPANSA is active in collaborating within the EHS communities, medical specialists, and researchers. ARPANSA will continue study research related to the health effects caused by EMF radiation.

RF-EMF causes DNA damage
Exposure to man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are associated with DNA damage and other health effects. EMFs can disrupt the intracellular ionic levels, which are vital to maintain the balance of electrochemical activity in cells. It can also cause disruption to cell homeostasis and result damages to the DNA. Additionally, exposure to EMFs can also trigger an increase in the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).


Exposure to RF-EMF radiation has been linked to changes in the male germ cell's development. This is due to the differentiation of the germ cell into spermatozoa as well functioning maturation as spermatozoa pass throughout the epididymis. To study the effects of RF-EMF on male germ cell development A specially designed waveguide machine was constructed to expose mice that were not restrained to RF-EME at 2.2 W/kg.

In a recent study researchers have discovered that exposure to RF EME caused the oxidative DNA damage of the spermatozoa. Sperm DNA fragmentation was increased by 18% after a week of treatment, and by 23% after 5 weeks. Furthermore, DNA damage in mitochondria was observed by measuring the level of a biomarker, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG).


However, the RF-EMF radiation has not yet been considered to be a carcinogen. However, sensitivity to electromagnetism have revealed that RF-EMF exposure can impair DNA health in variety of cell lines. In one study, scientists were exposed Vero cell lines to EMF of 100 Hz for about 45 minutes. They measured DNA damage at 48 hours following exposure to determine whether the exposure affected DNA integrity.

RF-EMF causes tissue heating
Although the effects of RF-EMF are usually believed as thermal in nature, some studies have revealed that non-thermal influences are also observed. These may be the reason for some of the unresolved observations in epidemiological studies on EMF hypersensitivity. It is therefore important to take into account non-thermal effects when conducting an exhaustive review.

The non-thermal effects of RF-EMF could occur at the cell membrane. This is a field of research that has been thoroughly investigated. In particular the electrochemical properties of cell membranes is being studied. Current understanding suggests that energy from RF-EMFs higher than 1 MHz is transferred to tissue via dielectric and the dissipation of ions. Previous theoretical analyses indicated that the energy transfer to the tissue could be up to 200 kV/m.

The electric properties of tissue are controlled in the form and quantity of water molecules and ions, and other substances in the body. This determines how absorbent EMR RF is by various tissues. Organs with greater conductivity are likely to absorb more of the EMR field and produce more of an impact. This is the reason why the amount of tissue heating does not increase steadily as it moves from the exterior to the body, but occurs in hot areas. Bone and fatty tissues are less prone to RF heating as compared to other tissues, since they have a low water content.

The extent of penetration of the electromagnetic field is determined by the frequency and strength that the electromagnetic field has. Muscle tissue is more able to absorb field radiation than most tissues and transforms it into heat more efficiently. Usually, the depth of penetration of RF-EMF is measured by millimeters (mm). But, the greater the frequency, the more shallow the penetration.

RF-EMF causes blood-brain barrier disruption
Researchers have discovered that RF-EMF can alter the blood-brain-barrier, altering sleep patterns and neurotransmitter levels. In addition the impacts on the effects of EMF affect brain function are linked to neurodegenerative disorders. For instance, EMF from mobile phones could affect the electroencephalogram's activity and sleep patterns, as well as the actions of nitric Oxide and xanthin oxidase.

Researchers at the Vienna University have studied the effects of exposure to RF EMF in brain cells. They also studied the effects of ELF EMF on the brain system. While the mechanisms of the cell involved are not completely understood but there is a clear association between ELF-EMF exposure and myelin depletion. This relationship might account for the electro-hypersensitivity symptoms of electro-hypersensitivity. There are, however, tested methods to regenerate myelin in the brain.

Researchers have found that exposure to frequencies of 900 Mhz EMF enhanced the permeability of BBB and increased signs of neuronal damage in rats. They also observed increased exovasation of albumin into neurons. Further, they found in 30 minutes 900 MHz exposure 99mTc-MIBI accelerated its penetration to the cerebral cortex. However this effect did not occur when using Evans blue-based injections.

However, RF-EMF does not have a clear mechanism for disrupting the BBB. Evidence suggests that non-thermal EMF exposure may increase erythrocyte cell membrane permeability. This could influence the BBB and also increase the efflux of calcium ions. Moreover, the presence of a 99mTc-MIBI radiotracer within the brain has been connected to increased permeability of BBB.

Public Last updated: 2022-12-29 08:47:30 PM