Well being Effects of EMF Radiation
RF-EMF radiation can cause damages to DNA and tissue, and can disrupt the blood-brain-barrier. These effects are real and ARPANSA is actively engaged in discussions with EHS communities, medical experts as well as researchers. The agency will continue to study research related to the health effects of EMF radiation.
RF-EMF damages emf radiation to man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) is associated with DNA damage as well as adverse health consequences. EMFs can affect the intracellular ionic levels, which are essential to ensure a cell's electrochemical balance. This can alter the balance of cell metabolism, resulting damages to the DNA. Additionally exposure to EMFs can also trigger an increase in the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
The exposure to radiation from RF-EMF has been linked with alterations in the male germ cell's development. This results in the development of germ cells into spermatozoa as well maturation of the functional aspect as spermatozoa pass through the epididymis. To determine the effect of RF-EMF exposure on male germ cell development, a specifically-designed waveguide machine was designed to expose unrestrained mice to RF EME with a dose of 2.2 W/kg.
In a study that was conducted recently, researchers have discovered exposure to RF-EME causes the oxidation of DNA in spermatozoa. Sperm DNA fragmentation increased by 18% following an entire week of treatment and by 23 percent after 5 weeks. Furthermore, DNA damage in mitochondria was observed by measuring the level of a biomarker, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG).
However it isn't yet recognized as a true carcinogen. However, several studies have found that exposure to RF-EMF can affect the integrity of DNA in variety of cell lines. In one such study researchers subjected Vero cells with an EMF at 100 Hz over 45 minutes. Great site assessed DNA damage for within 48 hours of exposure to determine if exposure affected the integrity of DNA.
The effect of RF-EMF on tissue heating
Although the effects of RF EMF are typically considered to have thermal origins, some studies have revealed that non-thermal effects are also observed. These effects may account for some of the unsolved issues in epidemiological studies on EMF hypersensitivity. This is why it is crucial to take into account non-thermal effects when conducting an exhaustive review.
Non-thermal effects from RF-EMF could occur at the cell membrane. This is a field where research has been extensively studied. Particularly the electrochemical behavior of cell membranes has been studied. The current understanding is that energy from RF-EMF higher than 1 MHz is transmitted to the tissue via dielectric dissipation and ionic discharge. Previous theoretical analyses indicated that the energy transfer to the tissue could be up to 200 kV/m.
The electric properties of tissue are regulated through the distribution and composition of water molecules, and other molecules in the body. This determines how absorbed EMR RF is by various tissues. Organs with greater conductivity are likely to absorb more of the field and cause more of an impact. This is the reason why the amount of heat generated by tissue doesn't increase continuously from outside to inside however, it is more prevalent in hot spots. Bone and fatty tissue are less susceptible to RF heating than other tissues because they have a low water content.
The depth of the field's electromagnetic energy depends on the frequency and strength that the electromagnetic field has. Muscle tissue is more able to absorb field energies than the other tissue, and converts it to heat more efficiently. Usually the depth of penetration for RF EMF is determined in millimeters (mm). But, what is emf radiation , the more shallow the penetration.
RF-EMF causes blood-brain barrier disruption
Researchers have discovered that RF-EMF can disrupt the blood-brain barrier which can alter sleep patterns and neurotransmitter levels. Furthermore to this, the effects that EMF on brain activity have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases. For example, EMF from mobile phones could affect the electroencephalogram's activity and sleep patterns, and the activities of nitric oxide and xanthin oxidase.
Researchers at the Vienna University have studied the effects of exposure to RF EMF in brain cells. They also studied what effects ELF EMF on nervous system. Although the cellular mechanisms aren't completely comprehended however, there is an obvious association between ELF-EMF exposure and depletion of myelin. This relationship might account for the electro-hypersensitivity symptoms of electro-hypersensitivity. There are, however, tested methods to regenerate myelin inside the brain.
Researchers have discovered that exposure to frequencies of 900 millimeters EMF increased the permeability of the BBB and caused an increase in signs of neuronal damage in rats. They also observed an increase in the extravasation of albumin into neurons. Further, they found in 30 minutes exposure at 900 MHz 99mTc-MIBI accelerated its permeation to the cerebral cortex. However, this effect did not occur when using Evans blue-based injections.
However, RF-EMF does not have a clear mechanism for disrupting the BBB. Evidence suggests that non-thermal EMF exposure may increase erythrocyte cell membrane permeability, which could affect the BBB and enhance the efflux of calcium ions. Furthermore, the presence a 99mTc-MIBI radiotracer in the brain is also linked to an increase in the permeability of the BBB.