Influence of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields exposure on sleep patterns in preterm neonates

Authors: Besset D, Selmaoui B, Delanaud S, Bessarion L, Chardon K, de Seze R, Leke A, Stéphan-Blanchard E

Year: 2023

Category: Radiation Biology

Journal: Int J Radiat Biol

Institution: Int J Radiat Biol

DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2277365

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37972294/

Abstract

Overview

The study aimed to assess the impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure on the sleep patterns of preterm newborns, hypothesizing that increased RF-EMF exposure might alter infant sleep structure parameters.

Materials and Methods

Continuous RF-EMF level measurements in 29 hospitalized preterm newborns over the first 21 days post-birth.
Overnight sleep structure recorded by polysomnography on the last day.
Analysis of relationships between chronic (three-week period) and acute (over one-night period) RF-EMF exposures with sleep parameters.

Findings

Notable chronic effects of RF-EMF exposure included increased indeterminate sleep at median exposure levels and sleep fragmentation at high levels. No significant correlations were found between acute RF-EMF levels and sleep parameters.

Conclusion

While no definitive disruption in sleep structure was noted, the study is the first to report sensitivity in some sleep parameters to chronic RF-EMF exposure in preterm newborns. Further investigation is necessary to explore potential long-term effects on sleep-related health outcomes.

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