A study shows non-thermal effects below regulatory limits
A study published in Bioengineering (March 2025) by an international team involving researchers from the Sorbonne University and CNRS (France), Naresuan University (Thailand), Xavier University (USA) and the University of Surrey (UK) reveals changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human cells exposed to 1.8 GHz (3G) radiofrequencies, at levels up to 100,000 times lower than current regulatory limits. This scientific work provides new experimental evidence of non-thermal effects, challenging the regulatory paradigm based exclusively on tissue heating (thermal effects) recommended by ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection).
Key points of this study on non-thermal effects
- Rigorous methodology: Shielded exposure system with thermal control (±0.1°C) and in situ dosimetry, eliminating artifacts from previous studies.
- Biphasic effects: Modulation of genes (KIAA, GPX1, SOD2) following a U-shaped curve, with peaks at infinitesimal powers (0.66 µW/m²).
- Identified mechanism: ROS-induced oxidative stress, implicated in neurodegenerative and cancer pathologies.
The authors conclude their findings as follows:
“We believe that this method can help provide a guideline for greater reliability and reproducibility of research results between laboratories, and thus help resolve the current controversy over the underlying mechanisms and outcomes of radiofrequency exposure in the general population.”
Consequences for public health
This study reinforces the expectations of our NGO concerning the need for an urgent revision of European and international exposure standards. It also calls for:
- Realistic testing: Current protocols are carried out with artificial distances and modalities between the phone and the body, thus underestimating actual exposure.
- Better public information: Users must be warned of the risks associated with prolonged use in direct contact with the body.
- A strengthened precautionary principle: Public policies must incorporate these new data to protect vulnerable populations, especially children and pregnant women.
Dr. Marc Arazi, President of Phonegate Alert, points out:
“This study confirms that ICNIRP standards, focused on thermal effects, ignore critical non-thermal biological mechanisms. Current tests of the SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) of phones and other connected objects radically underestimate the real exposure of millions of users.”
Phonegate Alert’s call to action
Phonegate Alert calls on national and international health authorities to take these results into account, and to initiate a revision of exposure standards incorporating the non-thermal effects of radio frequencies without further delay.
The association will also pursue its legal and awareness-raising actions to defend public health in the face of the risks associated with electromagnetic radiation.
https://phonegatealert.org/en/a-study-shows-non-thermal-effects-below-regulatory-limits/