Abstract

Overview

The primary objective of this study was to examine the correlation between the whole-brain exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) and cognitive function in younger populations, specifically preadolescents and adolescents.

Methods

• Cross-sectional analysis in groups aged 9-11 and 17-18 from two prominent birth cohort studies in the Netherlands and Spain.
• Estimations of whole-brain RF-EMF doses combined from various sources such as mobile phones, tablets, and external environmental sources.
• Cognitive testing covered areas like non-verbal intelligence, processing speed, attention, cognitive flexibility, working memory, and semantic fluency.

Findings

Data revealed that higher measurements of RF-EMF exposure were associated with lower scores on non-verbal intelligence tests among both Dutch and Spanish preadolescents. The estimated overall RF-EMF dose measures were 90.1 mJ/kg/day in preadolescents and 105.1 mJ/kg/day in adolescents.

Conclusion

The study indicates that increased exposure to RF-EMF could be linked to lower cognitive function in terms of non-verbal intelligence. It is crucial to note the study's cross-sectional nature and the necessity for further longitudinal studies to explore these findings comprehensively.