Nonlinear heart rate variability measures under electromagnetic fields produced by GSM cellular phones

Abstract

This study was designed to assess the nonlinear dynamics of heart rate variability (HRV) during exposure to low-intensity EMFs. Twenty-six healthy young volunteers were subjected to a rest-to-stand protocol to evaluate autonomic nervous system in quiet condition (rest, vagal prevalence) and after a sympathetic activation (stand). The procedure was conducted twice in a double-blind design: once with a genuine EMFs exposure (GSM cellular phone at 900 MHz, 2 W) and once with a sham exposure (at least 24 h apart). During each session, three-lead electrocardiograms were recorded and RR series extracted off-line. The RR series were analyzed by nonlinear deterministic techniques in every phase of the protocol and during the different exposures. The analysis of the data shows there was no statistically significant effect due to GSM exposure on the nonlinear dynamics of HRV.

Heart rate variability affected by radiofrequency electromagnetic field in adolescent students

“…Parazzini et al [] reported no HRV effects or acute changes in the central regulation of ANS after exposure to 900 MHz from cell phone during 13 min. Of note, those authors found statistically significant increase in the LF component while in standing position, whereas no effects were observed in the lying position.…”

“…HRV is predominantly influenced by parasympathetic nerve activity; thus, in our study the lying position was sensitive to detecting potential discrete abnormalities in cardiovagal function. We assume that continuous BP monitoring is important for studying sympathetic regulation of the cardiovascular system, while measurements of BP are missing in the Parazzini et al [] study. Further research using advanced monitoring techniques such as continuous BP or skin conductance measurements are needed to resolve this question.…”

“…One limitation of our study is the linear data evaluation, while calculating nonlinear HRV parameters may reveal new outcomes [Parazzini et al, ]. Of note, larger antenna dimensions were used in this study compared to standard dimensions of cell phones, resulting in differences of SAR distribution.…”

“…Indeed, transition from standing to lying stimulates ANS activity, which may be affected by RF EMF exposure. For example, Parazzini et al [, ] exposed volunteers to RF and found effects only in standing position using orthostatic test. Thus, we aimed to study the effects of RF EMF on ANS through monitoring HRV online in ortho‐clinostatic test.…”

Searching for the Perfect Wave: The Effect of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields on Cells

“…For example, Parazzini et al [105] show that repeated exposure to GMS cell phone 900 MHz does not interfere with non-linear dynamics of heart-rate variations in healthy volunteers.…”