Abstract

Abstract

Overview

The systematic review focuses on the increasing exposure of humans to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) and its potential health effects, specifically regarding tumor incidence in laboratory rodents. This review adheres to the PRISMA guidelines and incorporates the OHAT Risk of Bias Rating Tool for a thorough evaluation.

Findings

• A total of 27 studies were assessed, with a meta-analysis conducted on 23 studies to evaluate tumor risk at the systemic level and across various organs and tissues.
• Despite extensive analysis, the evidence of increased or decreased cancer risk remains predominantly inconclusive—only noting possible increased risks in specific regions such as the heart, CNS/brain, and intestines for malignant tumors.
• A limitation on a dose-response relationship was observed, reflecting serious methodological limitations across the studies, notably small sample sizes in control groups and concerns over bias.

Conclusion

This review meticulously analyzed empirical data from studies concerning EMF-RF exposure and cancer linkage. Despite some evidence of risk, the conclusive association between EMF exposure and neoplasm onset at multiple sites shows inadequacy and lack of certainty due to methodological constraints in study designs. Furthermore, the review suggests important areas for future research, notably in improving experimental design and methodology in systematic reviews on animal studies. It calls for an update on systematic review methodologies and inclusion criteria to enhance the reliability of findings in the field of EMF safety.