The effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields exposure on tinnitus, migraine and non-specific symptoms in the general and working population: A systematic review and meta-analysis on human observational studies

Authors: R��sli M, Dongus S, Jalilian H, Eyers J, Esu E, Oringanje CM, Meremikwu M, Bosch-Capblanch X

Year: 2024 Jan

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Environment International

DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108338

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412023006116?via%3Dihub

Abstract

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF; 100 kHz to 300 GHz) exposure on the occurrence of tinnitus, migraine, headaches, sleep disturbances, and composite symptom scores in both the general and working populations. RF-EMF exposure is common due to its use in communications (such as mobile phones), medicine, and industry.

Methods

  • Eligible studies included case-control and prospective cohort studies involving local or whole-body RF-EMF exposure for at least one week. The review draws from various databases, including Web of Science and Medline, and evaluates risk of bias using the OHAT-adapted tool. Studies were synthesized using random effects meta-analysis.

Findings

  • A total of 13 papers from eight unique cohort studies and one case-control study were reviewed, representing 486,558 European participants.
  • Symptom categories studied included: tinnitus (3 papers), migraine (1), headaches (6), sleep disturbances (5), and composite symptom scores (5).
  • Only one study examined occupational RF-EMF exposure.
  • No clear evidence was found to indicate that RF-EMF exposure below guideline values causes these symptoms, but the certainty of evidence is very low.
  • The low certainty is due to the small number of studies, risks of bias, inconsistencies, indirectness, and imprecision in current research.
  • Numerous combinations of exposure and symptoms were studied without a clear association detected among non-priority symptoms or exposure sources.

Discussion

  • The evidence base faces significant challenges, including difficulties with confounding control and exposure assessment, which are likely to persist in future research.
  • Near-field exposures from wireless devices are often intertwined with lifestyle factors, complicating the separation of biophysical RF-EMF effects from behavioral influences such as reduced sleep or physical activity.
  • Innovative methods are required in future studies to better distinguish these influences.

Conclusion

  • Currently, there is no strong indication that RF-EMF below current guidelines causes symptoms, but substantial uncertainty remains due to limitations inherent in the available research.
  • It is important to recognize the existing connection between RF-EMF exposure and reported symptoms, and acknowledge that uncertainty persists about potential health impacts.
radiofrequency electromagnetic fields RF-EMF tinnitus migraine sleep disturbances health effects systematic review
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