Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Effects of high-frequency electromagnetic fields on human EEG: a brain mapping study med./bio.

Published in: Int J Neurosci 2003; 113 (7): 1007-1019

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To investigate the effects of the pulsed high frequency electromagnetic field emitted by cellular phones on human EEG in children and adults.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 900 MHz
Modulation type: pulsed
Exposure 2: 100 MHz
Modulation type: CW

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 900 MHz
Type
Modulation
Modulation type pulsed
Repetition frequency 217 Hz
Exposure setup
Exposure source
Chamber sound isolated room
Setup Subjects were sitting on an arm chair.
Additional info EEG recordings were made before and during a call.
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
power 4 W - - - 3-4 W

Exposure 2

Main characteristics
Frequency 100 MHz
Type
Modulation
Modulation type CW
Exposure setup
Exposure source
  • radiophone
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
power 3 mW maximum - - -

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

Investigated system:
Investigated organ system:
Time of investigation:
  • during exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

The EEG was found to show normal activity during irradiation. However, a short-lasting slow-wave activity occured after a latent period of 15-20 s after turning on the phone. The authors observed these slow-waves, within the delta range, periodically in every 15-20 s. After turning off the phone, they progressively decreased. The authors concluded that the electromagnetic fields emitted by cell phones may be harmful for the human brain, since the delta waves are pathological if seen in awake subjects. On the other hand, the slow wave activity was more pronounced in children than adults, indicating that the children may be more vulnerable to the adverse health effects of cellular phones than adults.
(Results of field 2 (100 MHz, CW) are not shown.)

Study character:

Study funded by

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