Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields: Carcinogenic and Other Biological Effects

In the electromagnetic spectrum, structural damage to living tissues per unit of absorbed energy tends to increase with the decrease of a wavelength which is evident not only for ultraviolet and ionizing radiation but also for the infrared and visible light. By causing thermal damage after absorbing energies that would be harmless for radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (EMF), tissues are evenly heated. There are no prima facie reasons to expect more damage from EMF than from infrared radiation which is believed to be harmless in terms of thermal damage. Several studies reported possible associations between EMF, glioma and other tumors. Other research did not confirm such associations or even identified a reduced risk of brain tumors among mobile phone (MP) users. Anelevation in the application of MP has been observed in some countries and age groups which is out of proportion. Improving imaging technology and access to health care units have contributed to an increased incidence rate. Bias is known to occur in epidemiologic research. At the beginning of the MP era, the use of MP was associated with a high income which, in turn, must be associated with better diagnostics results. Admittedly, nowadays MPs are affordable for the majority of people and it is unclear whether the socioeconomic bias still plays a significant role. In conclusion, there is neither compelling evidence nor theoretic plausibility for the concept that EMF is more harmful than infrared radiation per unit of absorbed energy.