Abstract

Overview

Everyday exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) is widespread due to the presence of wireless devices. This study examines the impact of RF-EMF exposure in individuals who identify as electrohypersensitive, attributing non-specific physical symptoms (NSPS) such as headaches and fatigue to this exposure.

Objectives

• The study explores the correlation between daily RF-EMF exposure and the occurrence of NSPS in self-declared electrohypersensitive individuals.

Methods

Seven individuals who believed their NSPS were due to RF-EMF exposure were selected. Their exposure levels and symptom variability were tracked over three weeks using body worn exposimeters and electronic diaries. Time series analysis was employed to correlate recorded exposures with NSPS.

Findings

• Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between perceived and actual exposure to wireless internet and mobile telecommunication base stations and NSPS in four subjects.
• In two individuals, symptoms increased with higher exposure, while in two others, symptoms decreased. Remarkably, no significant correlations were found with the commonly used metric of time-weighted average power density.

Conclusion

RF-EMF exposure correlates both positively and negatively with NSPS in some self-declared electrohypersensitive persons, underlining the importance of individual difference in responses to environmental EMF.