Claim: Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields Pose a Risk to Human Health

Verdict: False and misleading

“We are also examining electromagnetic fields [...] I've litigated on this issue, there's a lot of science out there, there's over 10,000 studies that we submitted to the court of appeals in a case that we won, that ordered FCC to redo its regulations, but there are still gaps in knowledge and we're filling those. [...] these questions deserve rigorous science, transparency and answers.”

– RFK Jr.

RFK Jr. Says HHS Is Examining The Impacts Of Chemtrails And Electromagnetic Fields

Before making a widely-reported comment on “chemtrails,” RFK Jr. spoke on the supposed risks of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) this week. He references a lawsuit he submitted with Children’s Health Defense, which focused on the risks of wireless technology generally and 5G in particular.

But are RF electromagnetic fields really a risk to human health?

RF-EMF and Cancer

Much of the concern around RF-EMF is about possible links to cancers.

The first of two systematic reviews from the same team covers the “most researched” cancer outcomes for RF field exposure. Based on 63 studies conducted between 1994 and 2022, the review finds no risk for these cancers. These include glioma, meningioma, acoustic neuroma, pituitary tumours, salivary gland tumours or paediatric brain tumours. Factors like the amount of time participants had been using mobile phones or cumulative call time made no apparent difference.

RF-EMF and Cognition

A systematic review and meta-analysis on RF-EMF exposure and cognition indicators – such as memory, executive function and complex attention – only found five eligible studies. Therefore, the evidence was low to very low certainty. Regardless, the studies found little to no link.

RF-EMF and Self-Reported Symptoms

Many people report symptoms such as headaches and sleep issues, which they link to RF-EMF exposure. A systematic review on this topic included 41 studies, and all either found no effect or small, non-significant effects. Notably, it also found that people were no better than chance at determining whether they were exposed to RF-EMF.

RF-EMF and Oxidative Stress

Many claims in the lawsuit referenced by RFK Jr. relate to oxidative stress and RF-EMF. A systematic review on this topic included 45 in vivo and 11 in vitro studies, and generally found inconsistent results and studies with a high risk of bias. Rodent studies suggest a possible increase in oxidative stress in the testes, serum and thymus, but more evidence is needed.

Overall, none of these claims are backed by strong evidence.