Effects of Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure on Sleep Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

ISEE-0404 Background and Objective: There is public concern about the effects of exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on health-related quality of life. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between levels of exposure to RF-EMF and sleep quality. Methods: We sent questionnaires to 4000 individuals who were randomly selected from the inhabitants of the city of Basel (Switzerland) and the surroundings. We assessed day-time sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and subjective sleep quality score (SQS) using questions from the Swiss Health Survey 2007. In addition, we asked about RF-EMF exposure relevant behaviours, lifestyle factors and socio-demographic factors. We used a prediction model to assess exposure to environmental RF-EMF including modelled exposure from fixed site transmitter at home. Two exposure categories were built (below and above the 90th percentile). Analyses were stratified for individuals reporting to be electromagnetic hypersensitive (EHS) and non-EHS individuals. Multivariable models were adjusted for relevant confounders (e.g. age, gender and self-reported distress). Results: Response rate was 37%. Considering all responders, 21% reported to be EHS. Mean predicted exposure to all RF-EMF sources was 0.19 V/m. The cut-off point (90th percentile) was 0.25 V/m. In the multivariable models the ESS score was neither in the EHS collective (OR = 1.08, 95% CI [0.41-2.81] for 10% highest exposed) nor in the non-EHS collective (OR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.49-1.34] for 10% highest exposed) significantly associated with personal RF-EMF exposure. Similarly, SQS was not associated in both collectives with personal RF-EMF exposure. In addition, we found no indication that self-reported duration of mobile phone use, objective operator data or self-reported cordless phone use influence ESS or SQS. Conclusion: Preliminary analyses suggest that exposure to RF-EMF is not associated with day-time sleepiness or subjective sleep quality of non-EHS and EHS individuals.