Topic

Feasibility study on age dependent effects of RF electromagnetic fields on the basis of relevant biophysical and biological parameters

Start

15.05.2004

End

15.10.2004

Project Management

ARC Seibersdorf research GmbH

Objective

The so called "Stewart Report" from 2000 postulated, that children and young people may be more sensitive to possible biological effects of RF electromagnetic fields.

The aim of the study is an extensive analysis of literature and data in the field of age dependent biophysical and biological parameters. It shall be clarified, whether from the analysis of existing scientific information a plausible hypothesis regarding to an enhanced vulnerability of young children and teenagers to RF-electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) can be postulated. Possible critical biological target structures shall be identified as a basis for the main study.

Results

The feasibility study is finished. A comprehensive analysis of literature and data in the field of biophysical and biological parameters which may influence age dependent absorption of RF-radiation or age dependent effects of RF-radiation is presented. Potentially relevant target structures are discussed. Due to the complexity of the still open aspects involved, it seems to be impossible on a short term to give an exhaustive answer to the question whether an elevated health-risk for children with respect to RF exposure exists. However, the clarification of some of the aspects seems to be possible within the frame of a corresponding study. Such a study therefore could contribute important results and help to corroborate or disprove at least certain aspects of the existing hypothesis. The researchers recommend to focus future work on practically relevant aspects. Because of the increasing use of mobile phones by children and the comparatively high exposure compared to whole body impact, the main study should concentrate on near field exposure of the head. While biologic and epidemiologic studies are regarded as feasible as well, dosimetric studies are favoured because knowledge gaps and methods can be defined quite precisely and the expected results are considered as most relevant for practical reasons. Possible approaches of a main study as well as estimated manpower are discussed.

The final report is available as PDF-file (1.11 Mb) in German.

Conclusions

The comprehensive compilation and analysis of existing data in the field of possible age dependent effects of electromagnetic radiation provides a valuable basis for the main study.