Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMF) on children, emphasizing the potential vulnerability due to their ongoing development. A systematic review of epidemiological data alongside a brief examination of animal and mechanistic studies was conducted.

Findings

• Assessment across various health dimensions such as cancer, birth outcomes, neurocognitive development, and behavioral issues showed inconclusive evidence of adverse effects.
• Greater evidence of behavioral issues postnatal compared to prenatal exposure was noted, with ongoing controversies regarding neurocognitive impacts.
• High-quality, well-designed future studies are urged due to significant research gaps, especially in exposure assessment and causal study designs.

Conclusion

While recent large-scale animal research suggests carcinogenic effects, the studies reviewed did not conclusively determine the RF-EMF's impact on children’s health outcomes, pointing to a need for improved research methodologies that minimize bias and enhance causal inference.