Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation with a focus on hematology parameters: a brief review and future research needs

Abstract

Overview

Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) usage has significantly expanded since the 1950s, being prevalent in various industries, household items, medicine, security, navigation, and particularly in wireless telecommunications and animal husbandry. The rapid deployment of 5G networks has triggered increased scrutiny and public concern regarding potential adverse health effects on both humans and animals.

Findings

• Exposure to RF-EMR is linked to biological effects such as genotoxicity, alterations in cell proliferation and gene expression, disruptions in cell signalling and membrane function, as well as impact on immune, hematopoietic, and reproductive systems.
• Research demonstrates that RF-EMR, including emissions from cell phones and other electronic devices (notably those using 4G technology or earlier), can have harmful effects on blood cells, causing changes in complete blood count parameters. The severity and nature of these effects depend on the type of organism, source, frequency, electric field intensity, and exposure duration.
• The current literature reveals a lack of comprehensive data on RF-EMR effects specifically related to hematology indicators and erythrocyte morphometry in domestic animals.

Conclusion

This review emphasizes the necessity of understanding how RF-EMR, including 5G frequencies, affects hematology indicators, erythrocyte morphology, and platelet activation in humans and animals. There is a clear call for further research, particularly regarding in vitro blood exposure to RF-EMR, which is increasingly relevant for the storage and use of blood products in transfusion medicine. Given the pervasive nature of electromagnetic pollution, gaining knowledge in this area is critical to safeguarding human and animal health.