Abstract

Overview

With the increasing usage of mobile phones and advancements in mobile technology, understanding their effects on the human brain and cognitive functions is crucial. This study focuses on the neurophysiological and cognitive impacts of short-term radiofrequency (RF) exposure from modern mobile technologies.

Findings

• Examination of the effects of RF fields emitted by new-generation mobile techs, notably Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE).
• Study subjects included 60 healthy, young-adult university students.
• Utilized a double-blind methodology with Real and Sham exposure to RF in separate sessions.
• EEG recordings measured before, during, and after RF exposure.
• Investigated changes in alpha band (8-12 Hz) EEG activity.

The study found that RF exposure from mobile phones led to a significant decrease in EEG alpha power across the whole scalp. This decrease persisted even after the RF exposure had ceased.

Conclusion

Despite the notable changes in EEG alpha power, RF exposure did not affect the performance on the Stroop cognitive test. These results suggest that while the brain's alpha oscillations networks might undergo minor adjustments to adapt to RF exposure, cognitive functions remain unaffected.