Abstract

Overview

This observational study explores the connection between electromagnetic field (EMF) hypersensitivity and sleep patterns among individuals. The focus is significantly on genetic factors, specifically the CACNA1C gene, and their association with sleep quality in subjects identifying as electro-hypersensitive (EHS).

Background

• EMF Exposure: Individuals exposed to radiofrequency EMF who experience disturbed sleep patterns.
• Genetic Concern: Impacts on sleep potentially tied to the CACNA1C gene, related to calcium signaling in neurons.

Methods

Study with 2,040 participants utilizing self-assessments and genotyping to investigate the role of genetic variants in subjective sleep quality and EMF sensitivity.

Findings

• Significant genetic linkage found between allele variant rs2302729 of CACNA1C and worsened sleep quality.
• Distinct difference in sleep quality between EMF sensitive individuals and non-sensitive counterparts, with EHS subjects reporting pronounced sleep disturbances.

Conclusion

The study underscores a strong correlation between CACNA1C variants and both poor sleep quality and increased sensitivity to RF-EMFs, highlighting potential genetic underpinnings for EMF hypersensitivity. Notably, this association was manifested without direct mediation through mobile phone use.