Abstract

Overview

This study aims to evaluate prenatal exposure to radiofrequency radiation (RFR) from telecommunication. It utilizes various methodologies including a mobile phone questionnaire, operator data logs, and a personal exposure meter (PEM).

Methods

• Inclusion of 1228 mother-infant pairs from the Mothers and Children's Environmental Health (MOCEH) study, a multicenter prospective cohort.
• Study participants were enrolled at ≤20 weeks of pregnancy with a follow-up post childbirth.
• The study employed a detailed questionnaire regarding daily calling frequency and duration, alongside direct measurement using an EME Spy 100 PEM.
• Data was supplemented with operator logs for further validation.

Findings

High correlations were observed between the operator's log data and self-reported mobile phone use for average calling frequency and time. Despite moderate correlations in self-reported data, the direct measurements through PEM showed poor correlations.

Conclusion

The research underscores the importance of combining self-reported questionnaires with operator logs and direct measurement tools to accurately assess RFR exposure during pregnancy. This multi-faceted approach may provide a more comprehensive understanding of prenatal RFR exposure and its potential health implications.