In Vivo Studies on Radiofrequency (100 kHz–300 GHz) Electromagnetic Field Exposure and Cancer: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Overview

The systematic review critically examines the correlation between radiofrequency electromagnetic field (EMF-RF) exposures and the onset of cancer, particularly focusing on laboratory animals. This was guided by the PRISMA guidelines and the assessment of individual studies with the OHAT Risk of Bias Rating Tool.

Findings

• A total of 27 studies were analyzed, with a meta-analysis conducted on 23 studies to review cancer risk at systemic levels and in various organs/tissues.
• Significant increased or decreased risks were not broadly identified, with some exceptions observed in specific organs like the heart, CNS/brain, and intestine for malignant tumors.
• Overall, the evidence for an association between RF exposure and the onset of cancer was rated as low or inadequate across all studied tissues.
• The study highlighted concerns regarding the experimental designs and potential biases, notably the small number of animals in control groups and the inclusion of only English-language papers.

Conclusion

This review points to insufficient evidence linking RF-EMF exposure to cancer development in laboratory rodents. However, the review underscores the need for enhanced experimental design in future studies to improve the validity and reliability of findings in this field.

Future directions include updating this review to integrate new data and methodologies, reflecting the ongoing significance of this research topic for regulatory frameworks and decision-making processes.