The effect of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields on cognitive performance in human experimental studies: Systematic review and meta-analyses

Authors: Pophof B, Kuhne J, Schmid G, Weiser E, Dorn H, Henschenmacher B, Burns J, Danker-Hopfe H, Sauter C, Pophof B

Year: 2024

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Environment International

DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108899

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024004859?via%3Dihub

Abstract

Background

The objective of this review is to evaluate the associations between short-term exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) and cognitive performance in human experimental studies.

Methods

  • Online databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMF-Portal were used to search for relevant studies.
  • The Risk of Bias tool developed by OHAT was used for quality assessment.
  • Random effects meta-analyses of Hedges's g were conducted for different cognitive performance measures.
  • Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to determine the certainty of evidence.

Results

  • 57,543 records identified, 76 studies met the inclusion criteria with data from 3846 participants across 19 countries.
  • Meta-analyses showed no statistically significant effect of RF-EMF exposure on cognitive performance in any analyzed domains.
  • Subclass-specific analysis in domains like Orientation and Attention, Processing Speed, and Memory highlighted minimal to no difference in cognitive effects due to RF-EMF exposure.

Conclusion

Short-term RF-EMF exposure has little to no impact on cognitive performance. Further research is recommended to explore specific age groups and sexes, as well as potential risks in subdomains such as Construction and Motor Performance.

Funding and Support

Partially funded by the WHO radioprotection programme, with rigorous methodological support throughout the review process.

radiofrequency electromagnetic fields cognitive performance meta-analysis experimental studies systematic review human health
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