The effect of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields on cognitive performance in human experimental studies: A protocol for a systematic review

Abstract

Overview

The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively assessing the health impacts linked to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs). This systematic review aims to rigorously examine the influence of RF-EMFs on cognitive performance, addressing concerns about potential health risks.

Objectives

The primary goal of this systematic review is to evaluate associations between short-term RF-EMF exposure and cognitive performance through a structured protocol. The review targets experimental studies involving humans to gather reliable data.

Methods

• Data Sources: Databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the EMF-Portal will be employed. Furthermore, reference lists of relevant studies and review articles will be manually searched.
• Study Eligibility: Inclusion criteria are randomized human experimental studies assessing the effects of RF-EMFs on cognitive performance. Peer-reviewed articles in any language that report primary data will be considered.
• Data Extraction & Analysis: A pre-defined set of forms will guide data extraction, and risk of bias will be evaluated using the Rating Tool for Human and Animal Studies by NTP/OHAT. Meta-analysis or narrative synthesis will be conducted based on study similarity.
• Certainty Assessment: The certainty of evidence for each outcome will be graded using the GRADE system.

Conclusion

This protocol, registered in PROSPERO, promotes transparency and aims to uncover the potential cognitive effects of RF-EMFs, potentially contributing to public health guidelines.