Reduced Subjective Sleep Quality in People Rating Themselves as Electro-hypersensitive: An Observational Study

Authors: Eicher C, Marty B, Achermann P, Huber R, Landolt H-P

Year: 2023

Category: Sleep Medicine

Journal: Sleep Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2023.11.029

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1389945723004471

Abstract

Overview

Disturbed sleep is a common complaint among those exposed to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), especially among individuals who identify as electromagnetic field (EMF) hypersensitive (EHS). This study explores the relationship between EHS status and sleep complaints, along with genetic factors that might influence this condition.

Methods

Study Population: 2,040 participants aged 18–30 completed online questionnaires and provided saliva samples for genetic testing.
Assessment: Questions covered EMF sensitivity, sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and more.
Group Classification: Participants were categorized based on their self-rated sensitivity to electromagnetic fields.

Findings

The analysis showed that participants who consider themselves EHS or attribute symptoms to electromagnetic pollution reported:

Prolonged sleep latency.
Reduced sleep quality.
Higher levels of sleepiness and nocturnal mentation compared to non-EHS individuals.

Genetic analysis highlighted a particular genetic variant associated with both EMF sensitivity and reduced sleep quality.

Conclusion

Self-reported EHS status correlates with poorer subjective sleep quality independent of actual EMF exposure. Genetic factors may also play a role in this perceived sensitivity and its impact on sleep.

Trial Registration: Swiss National Clinical Trials Portal (SNCTP000002285) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03074617)

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