In a first-of-its-kind pilot study published in Frontiers in Public Health, researchers examined the impact of radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by baby monitors on sleep quality.
In short:
- Adults who were exposed to RF radiation emitted by baby monitors (2.45 GHz) over seven nights experienced significantly reduced sleep quality compared to those who were not exposed.
- A quarter of the exposed adults reported sleep disruptions that qualified for clinical levels of insomnia risk.
- Exposure to RF radiation was also linked to statistically significant changes in EEG readings of brain activity during Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep.
Key quote:
“Until further studies verify or provide evidence contrary to these findings, caution is advised when using RF-EMF devices in bedrooms.”
Why this matters:
High quality sleep is critical for maintaining health, and sleep disruptions have been linked to cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and impacts to learning and memory. While this study focused specifically on baby monitors, many wireless devices commonly kept in bedrooms - such as cell phones, smart TVs, smart speakers, Wi-Fi routers and gaming systems - emit RF radiation. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends reducing children’s RF exposure and a re-evaluation of government safety limits because children absorb proportionately higher RF radiation into their brain and bodies during sensitive stages of development.
Related EHN coverage:
- Radiation from wireless devices may affect attention, study finds
- New analysis calls for more precise research on cell phones and brain cancer
More resources:
- To reduce RF exposure at night: Keep cell phones and electronics out of the bedroom and turn Wi-Fi networks off, especially when not in use. Use ethernet connections in the home as an alternative to Wi-Fi where possible.
- Environmental Working Group: Protecting kids from wireless radiation in school and at home
Bijlsma, Nicole et al. for Frontiers in Public Health. Oct. 28, 2024
