Manmade Electromagnetic Fields and Oxidative Stress—Biological Effects and Consequences for Health

Abstract

Overview

Electromagnetic fields (EMF), particularly from electrical appliances and mobile communication, are considered an environmental risk for health, classified as possibly carcinogenic. This review discusses the influence of EMF on oxidative stress based on animal and cell studies.

Findings

• Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent oxidative stress have been observed in numerous studies concerning various biological systems.
• EMF exposure particularly impacts neurological functions, genome stability, immune responses, and reproduction.
• Both radiofrequency (RF) EMF and extremely-low-frequency (ELF) MF have shown increased oxidative stress across many animal and cell studies.
• Investigations in various animals and cells show oxidative stress in multiple organs such as the brain, testes, heart, liver, and kidneys.

Conclusion

There are clear indications that even low-dose EMF exposure can lead to cellular changes, affecting particularly those who are very young, old, or have pre-existing conditions like diabetes or neurodegenerative diseases. Further standardized studies are necessary to confirm these observations and better understand EMF's health implications.