An Exploration of the Effects of Radiofrequency Radiation Emitted by Mobile Phones and Extremely Low Frequency Radiation on Thyroid Hormones and Thyroid Gland Histopathology

Abstract

Overview

The increasing use of mobile phones has brought attention to their potential health impacts, particularly from the non-ionizing radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) they emit. This literature review focuses on how these fields might affect the thyroid gland, which is vulnerable due to its location in the anterior neck.

Findings

• Studies indicate a possible association between mobile phone radiation and changes in thyroid hormone levels, as well as thyroid gland histopathology.
• Exposure to RF-EMF from mobile phones could disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, potentially leading to thyroid insufficiency.
• Extended exposure to EMF radiation was correlated with histopathological changes in thyroid follicles, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in follicular cells.

Conclusion

Given the findings, there is a considerable concern over the impact of non-ionizing radiation on thyroid health, suggesting a potential rise in thyroid disorders and possibly cancer. The review underscores the need for more comprehensive human studies to further investigate these associations.