Acoustic Pressures in the Head From Pulsed Microwaves: Can They Explain "Anomalous" Health Incidents? (Havana syndrome)

Authors: Foster LR, Diao Y, Chou C.-K.

Year: 2025

Category: Bioelectromagnetics

Journal: IEEE Microwave Magazine

DOI: 10.1109/MMM.2025.3624334

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=11251469&isnumber=11122301

Abstract

Overview

The microwave auditory effect—commonly described as the perception of "clicks" or "buzzing"—occurs when a person’s head is exposed to pulsed microwave energy, such as that emitted from radar transmitters. This phenomenon has been recognized since the 1960s.

Renewed Interest

Originally considered a relatively harmless threshold hearing effect, the microwave auditory effect is being re-examined due to the widespread deployment of high-powered microwave sources in recent years.

Relevance to "Anomalous Health Incidents"

  • Over the last decade, both experts and formal panels have suggested that this effect may be a plausible explanation for reported "anomalous health incidents."
  • Many of these incidents have been reported by U.S. Government employees, particularly those stationed in adversarial countries.
  • This study explores the viability of the microwave auditory effect in explaining such health-related events.

Conclusion

The potential for pulsed microwave exposures to induce audible phenomena—and perhaps other physiological impacts—raises important questions about EMF safety and public health, especially in occupational and sensitive settings. These connections between pulsed electromagnetic fields and health complaints warrant careful consideration and further research.

microwave auditory effect pulsed microwaves Havana syndrome health incidents electromagnetic fields radar exposure acoustic pressures
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