Abstract

Overview

With the increasing number of mobile phone users and corresponding exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), this study investigates the impact of GSM 900-MHz RF-EMF on heart rate variability (HRV) among healthy young adults.

Findings

• A total of 26 healthy young adults participated, undergoing two double-blind, randomized sessions where they were exposed to either a sham or real GSM 900 MHz RF-EMF.
• HRV was measured through time- and frequency-domain analysis during this exposure.
• A notable increase in the standard deviation of interbeat intervals (SDNN) was observed during real exposure compared to the sham.
• In the frequency-domain, total spectral power and low-frequency band (LF) absolute power significantly increased.

Conclusion

Despite the minimal changes observed, most HRV parameters remained unaffected by GSM signal exposure. The slight variations noted are inconclusive and could potentially be random rather than indicative of a genuine health risk, but the connection between RF-EMF exposure and subtle changes in HRV cannot be entirely dismissed. Enhanced precaution and further research are recommended.