Abstract

Overview

The study offers a renewed examination of the effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) on melatonin (MLT) levels across human and rat subjects. This investigation includes extensive analysis using 62 compiled studies.

Methodology

Utilizing both parametric (Bayesian logistic regression) and non-parametric (Support Vector analysis) methods, the research analyzes the data robustly to mitigate the risk of spurious or false outcomes.

Findings

• Revealed a consistent pattern of MLT level changes when magnetic field (MF) strength is confined within the same range (≲ 50 μT) for both human and rats.
• Identifies a threshold effect in chronic exposure scenarios where MF strength below certain levels (comparable to static geomagnetic fields) appears to decrease MLT levels.
• The relation between ELF-MF and MLT changes was uniformly observed across studied species when MF exposure was matched in intensity.

Conclusion

The analysis underscores the significant role of MF exposure duration in altering MLT levels, supporting previous findings. Additionally, the study advocates for further research with controlled lower-intensity ELF-MF exposures on rats to potentially mirror human environmental conditions and to clarify the health implications highlighted by epidemiological findings.