08th April 2025
In memory of Dr. Alexandre Legros, and in recognition of his commitment to mentoring young scientists and fostering international scientific exchange, the BioEM Board of Directors has established the Alexandre Legros Travel Support. This initiative aims to encourage promising students to actively participate in the BioEM annual meetings.
Germany
Abstract Title:
Umbrella review of RF-EMF exposure from far-field sources and cancer in humans
Abstract summary:
Introduction: Exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF; frequencies 100 kHz to 300 GHz) is ubiquitous. Concerns about potential health effects persist. The World Health Organization identified cancer as a key concern in relation to RF-EMF exposure. This umbrella review synthesises available evidence on the relationship between far-field RF-EMF exposure and neoplastic diseases up to May 2024. Methods:Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of human observational studies on RF-EMF and cancer were retrieved from MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, EMF-Portal, and Epistemonikos databases from inception to 15 May 2024. The eligibility criteria followed the PECOS scheme and adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using AMSTAR 2. A qualitative synthesis was performed using standardised forms and presented with text and tables. Results: Of the eight systematic reviews synthesised, five reported limited evidence of cancer risk from RF-EMF exposure, two reported increasing risks, and one failed to draw specific conclusions. All systematic reviews exhibited substantial risk of bias. Discussion: Within eligibility period, the scopes of the systematic reviews exhibited poorly focused scopes, inconsistent reporting, and limited primary studies. Methodological shortcomings complicated the synthesis of reliable evidence. These challenges emphasise the need for robust methodologies, standardised protocols, and enhanced data quality to strengthen the reliability of future research. Conclusion:Inconsistent quality, incomplete reporting, and methodological flaws in the systematic reviews hindered reliable conclusions. High-quality systematic reviews are essential for providing a more reliable understanding of the relationship between RF-EMF and cancer.
The Netherlands
What is more relevant: near- or far-field RF-EMF exposure? A simulation study based on mobile phone signal indicator data.
We used the ETAIN 5G Scientist app to capture reception quality indicators across areas in and around Utrecht, the Netherlands. We calculated far-field environmental exposure accumulated over a day. We also calculated brain dose from mobile phone calling (4G; in minutes call duration), depending on the reception quality indicators. We compared the contribution of far-field and near-field exposure to brain dose. Our exploration identifies calling as largest contributor to brain dose, but only when reception quality is suboptimal..
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