Radio Frequency Exposure in Military Contexts: A Narrative Review of Thermal Effects and Safety Considerations

Authors: Risling M, Günther, M

Year: 2025

Category: Occupational Health, Electromagnetic Fields Safety

Journal: Military Medicine

DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usaf613

URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usaf613

Abstract

Overview

Radiofrequency (RF) exposure has been extensively studied for its potential health risks. Unlike ionizing radiation, RF fields primarily cause thermal health effects, which are currently recognized as the only established mechanism of biological harm. Regulatory bodies—including the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)—set exposure limits intended to prevent excessive heating.

Review Approach

  • A narrative review was conducted using peer-reviewed literature, regulatory reports, and experimental studies from PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar, and Scopus.
  • Emphasis was placed on metrics such as Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) and Cumulative Equivalent Minutes at 43°C (CEM43).
  • Studies on thermal effects and relevant exposure scenarios were prioritized, while speculative non-thermal mechanisms were excluded.

Findings

  • Thermal Effects: RF-induced thermal effects depend on frequency, tissue composition, and environmental conditions.
  • Exposure Scenarios: Whole-body SAR limits (≤4 W/kg) generally prevent dangerous core temperature rises, but localized heating remains a concern, particularly for skin, eyes, and superficial nerves—even if overall exposure remains within regulatory limits.
  • CEM43 Metric: CEM43 offers a temperature-based risk metric yet is complex in transient exposure scenarios.
  • Penetration Depth: Measurement variability across NATO frequency bands highlights the need for improved tissue models and methods, as this directly impacts localized clinical risk.

Conclusion

Current RF safety guidelines, mainly based on SAR, effectively prevent systemic overheating, but localized risks persist, especially in military conditions where thermoregulation may be impaired. The body's heat dissipation mechanisms (like perfusion and sweating) help, but tissue-specific thresholds differ and intense or prolonged exposure can create dangerous "hotspots." Metrics like CEM43 are valuable but need refinement for operational use. Future work should focus on integrating SAR and thermal dose models to better predict and mitigate heat-related risks, especially in high-stress military environments.

radiofrequency RF exposure thermal effects military safety SAR CEM43 electromagnetic fields
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