Abstract

Abstract Summary

Background

Oxidative stress is linked to various diseases and is hypothesized to be exacerbated by radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), potentially affecting both human and animal health. This systematic review aims to evaluate the relationship between RF-EMF exposure from 100 kHz to 300 GHz and biomarkers of oxidative stress.

Methods

The review employed the WHO and NTP/OHAT guidelines for literature-based health assessments, searching databases up to June 30, 2023, assessing risk of bias, and using GRADE for evidence certainty. Data extraction followed a standardized method, analyzing results via meta-analysis or narrative synthesis based on study homogeneity and heterogeneity.

Results

• 56 studies included after screening 11,543 publications.
• Research included both in vivo (n=45) and in vitro (n=11) studies focusing on a range of biomarkers in various tissues.
• Analysis revealed high risk of bias and high heterogeneity, leading to very low certainty in the evidence.
• Effects on biomarkers varied widely across studies with both increases and decreases observed, indicating inconsistent results.

Discussion

The evidence is inconsistent and of very low certainty due to high risk of biases and heterogeneity. Implausible measurements and lack of methodological details were common issues. Recommendations for future research include improvements in experimental design and biomarker validation.