Exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by 4G LTE wireless networks impacted thyroid function in mice, according to a recent study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
In short:
- Adolescent mice who were exposed to 4G RF radiation for eight hours a day over the course of one month had significantly increased levels of T3, a thyroid hormone that’s critical for metabolic growth and neurodevelopment.
- RF radiation exposure was also associated with reduced expression of some genes related to the regulation of thyroid hormone production.
Key quote:
“These findings highlight the need for further research to comprehensively understand the effects of RF-EMFs on the endocrine system, particularly focusing on vulnerable children and adolescents.”
Why this matters:
All wireless devices - including cell phones, Wi-Fi and cell towers - emit RF radiation. Daily exposures are increasing, especially for children. The American Academy of Pediatrics has highlighted how children absorb proportionately higher RF radiation into their brain and bodies during sensitive stages of development. Experts are raising concerns that outdated regulations do not protect the public, particularly as technology is rapidly evolving beyond the 4G networks examined in this study.
Related EHN coverage:
- New analysis calls for more precise research on cell phones and brain cancer
- Radiation from wireless devices disrupts testicular function in rats
More resources:
- WATCH: Health Hazards of Wireless Technologies: What do we know now? webinar, featuring Dr. Joel Moskowitz of UC Berkeley and hosted by Collaborative for Health and Environment (CHE)
- Cancer, thyroid problems plague West Michigan dump neighbors. ›
- Chemical effects on female thyroid levels: Jessica Trowbridge, Ph.D. ›
