Silent Exposure, Widespread Symptoms: Millions Report Illness Linked to Everyday Wireless Technology
A new Australian study shows that over 26 million adults are likely to experience health problems from exposure to wireless radiation across Australia, the United States, and Canada. This includes one in six Australians – over 4.5 million people.
The study, by Dr Julie McCredden, Lyn McLean, and Professor Anne Steinemann, has been published in the journal Next Research.
“People report they feel unwell around common wireless devices and sources, such as mobile phones and WiFi systems. Doctors have diagnosed this sensitivity as a medical condition. So, we wanted to find out: How widespread is this condition?” said Professor Steinemann.
The authors describe wireless sensitivity as “the experience of adverse health symptoms from exposure to wireless (radiofrequency) radiation”, with symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to disabling.
◆ Common symptoms include:
Headaches, dizziness, cardiovascular problems, tinnitus, difficulty concentrating, nervous system effects, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, burning face, nausea, and dysesthesia
Prevalence Across Three Countries
To determine prevalence, an online survey of 3,475 adults was conducted, statistically matched to the general populations in Australia, the US, and Canada.
◆ Wireless sensitivity reported:
Australia 17.4% | US 12.8% | Canada 7.5%
◆ Medically diagnosed Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS):
Australia 14.9% | US 10.1% | Canada 5%
◆ Either condition reported:
Australia 18.9% | US 14.3% | Canada 8.7%
The study found that more males than females reported wireless sensitivity, with the highest prevalence among males aged 25–34, followed by those aged 35–44.
“As males comprise more than half of the Australian workforce, this finding has important implications for workers and employers,” said Dr Julie McCredden.
Overlap With Other Health Conditions
The study identified significant overlap between wireless sensitivity/EHS and other environmentally linked conditions:
◆ Chemical sensitivity / Multiple Chemical Sensitivities:
90.4% (Australia), 83.5% (US), 67.7% (Canada)
◆ Asthma or related conditions:
84.2% (Australia), 67.6% (US), 67.7% (Canada)
◆ Autism spectrum disorders:
74.2% (Australia), 52.7% (US), 34.4% (Canada)
◆ Fragrance sensitivity:
92.8% (Australia), 81.3% (US), 80.2% (Canada)
The authors note that these overlaps suggest similar biological effects may be occurring, with previous research identifying common underlying factors such as inflammation.
Underestimation of the Problem
The authors state that the true prevalence may be higher, noting:
- Individuals may not recognise wireless radiation as the cause of their symptoms
- Medical professionals may not diagnose EHS
- The online survey format may exclude those most severely affected
Lyn McLean commented:
“I have been working in this field for over 30 years and, in that time, thousands of people have told me they are sensitive to wireless radiation. Some of them have such severe sensitivities that they are no longer able to work or even spend time in public locations where there is wireless radiation. I’m glad our study was able to throw light on this important issue.”
A free download of the paper and additional resources is available at:
https://www.orsaa.org/ehs-research.html
Ubiquity of Wireless Radiation
Wireless radiation is emitted by a wide range of everyday technologies, including mobile and cordless phones, WiFi routers, baby monitors, computers, tablets, earpods, fitness trackers, and smart watches. It is also emitted by smart meters, vehicles and public transport systems, mobile phone base stations, and is present in most public buildings, schools, and workplaces.
Scientific Evidence of Biological Mechanisms
Recent advances in understanding the biological processes involved are described in the paper:
Henshaw and Philips (2025) – Recent advances in understanding the biological processes by which RF EMR exposure can lead to Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS)
Their peer-reviewed work demonstrates mechanistic plausibility for EHS, validating the experiences of affected individuals:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09553002.2024.2435329
Daily Exposure Risks to Nerve and Brain Function
Millions of people are exposed daily to wireless radiation at levels that can affect nerve and brain function. Even ICNIRP’s own guidelines (ICNIRP 2010) show that:
◆ Nerve stimulation occurs at just 2 volts per metre
◆ Neurobehavioral effects can occur at even lower exposures
Despite this, government bodies and health authorities continue to assert that these so-called “safe” levels adequately protect the public.
Real-World Impacts and Legal Consequences in the UK
These effects are not theoretical. Real-world cases demonstrate significant human and legal consequences associated with electromagnetic exposure:
Real-World Impacts and Legal Consequences in the UK
These cases demonstrate the tangible human and legal consequences of electromagnetic exposure:
◆ Velma Lyrae v Somerset West and Taunton Council – High Court quashed decision denying a homeless application
Read more
◆ Thomas v Cheltenham Borough Council – Adverse health effects from RF exposure for a person with medical implants
Read more
◆ Education Health Care Plan awarded (August 2022) – UK child diagnosed with EHS
◆ Early ill-health retirement and Employment Support Allowance awarded due to EHS
Read more
These cases include individuals experiencing severe electrical hypersensitivity affecting daily life, impacts on those with medical implants, recognition of EHS within education and welfare systems, and cases of homelessness.
Global and Children’s Impact
If the Australian figures are correct and taking into account that the study likely underestimates the true prevalence, nearly a billion people worldwide could be experiencing real health effects from wireless radiation. Children, who are especially vulnerable, face an uncertain future as daily exposure continues to rise, putting their health and development at risk. This evidence confirms that Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity is a serious public health concern that demands urgent awareness, precautionary measures, and policy action.
The new Australian Study is free to download at:
https://www.orsaa.org/ehs-research.htm