A review published in the journal Applied Sciences by Tojza et al. has found that exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic radiation (ELF-EMF), a type of non-ionizing radiation emitted by power lines, substations, appliances, and electronic devices, is consistently linked to disruptions in the endocrine system, according to animal studies.
The endocrine system regulates hormones that control metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress response.
The review reported that ELF-EMF exposure was associated with altered levels of stress hormones, melatonin, thyroid hormones, and reproductive hormones. The authors wrote that "the innate sensitivity of the endocrine system, combined with its role in mediating stress responses and maintaining homeostasis, makes it a prime candidate for manifesting subtle yet significant biological responses to environmental disturbances such as ELF-EMFs."
The review noted that these effects appear to be driven by oxidative stress and calcium ion imbalance.
Details of the Review
The review summarized evidence from multiple animal studies showing that ELF-EMF exposure can affect cortisol and melatonin production, thyroid function, and reproductive hormone levels. The authors stated that the endocrine system’s sensitivity makes it a candidate for biological responses to environmental disturbances.
According to the review, the disruptions are likely mediated by increases in oxidative stress and disruptions in calcium ion homeostasis.
The article noted that ELF-EMF sources are widespread, including power lines, household wiring, and electronic devices. Studies cited in the review demonstrated that even low-level, long-term exposure could produce measurable endocrine changes in animal models.
The authors called for more long-term human studies to clarify the extent of these effects in people.
Research published in Environmental Research, as reported by NaturalNews.com, found that children exposed to elevated levels of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields face more than double the risk of developing central nervous system tumors [1].
Similarly, a separate study highlighted in another NaturalNews.com article confirmed that everyday electromagnetic fields from power lines and Wi-Fi are linked to childhood brain tumor risk [2].
Growing Exposure and Regulatory Gaps
The review emphasized that ELF-EMF exposure is increasing, driven in part by the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers requiring new high-voltage transmission lines and substations, as well as the growing use of electronic devices in homes, schools, and workplaces.
Despite this increase, the United States has no federal safety limits for magnetic field EMF exposure, officials said, because all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) research on non-ionizing EMF was defunded in the 1990s.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified ELF magnetic fields as a "possible" human carcinogen in 2001, based largely on evidence linking residential exposure of 3 to 4 mG to childhood leukemia [3].
The book "Zapped" by Ann Louise Gittleman notes that one of the first studies linking magnetic fields from power lines to adverse health effects was published in 1979 by researchers Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who found a two- to three-fold increase in childhood cancers among children living near step-down transformers [3].
More recent studies continue to show associations. Kaiser Permanente studies reported that prenatal magnetic field EMF exposure was associated with increased miscarriage risk, as well as obesity and asthma in children.
Meanwhile, an 18-year nationwide study of over 3.5 million people found increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s mortality in homes close to electrical grid infrastructure, according to the review.
Precautionary Approaches and International Policies
The authors of the review emphasized that the widespread nature of ELF-EMF exposure justifies a precautionary approach, according to the review. The Council of Europe has previously recommended banning mobile phones and wireless networks in schools, as reported by ANH International [4].
Several countries have policies restricting the construction of homes and schools in areas where magnetic fields are elevated. For example, the Netherlands is buying up homes with elevated EMF exposure levels from nearby power lines and substations.
The scientists have recommended minimizing EMF exposure for decades. In the United States, policies should be implemented to minimize EMF exposure as a public health risk mitigation measure, in line with approaches taken in other countries.
The book "The Natural Woman’s Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy" by M. Sara Rosenthal notes that researchers are still investigating whether electromagnetic fields near power lines can predispose people to cancer [5].
Individuals can measure EMF levels in their homes with a basic milligauss meter or by contacting their local electric company.
The review recommended simple steps to reduce daily exposures, such as using tablets and laptops on tables and not on laps, relocating beds away from electrical panels, charging phones outside the bedroom, and unplugging electric blankets before getting into bed.
Conclusion and Further Research
The review concluded that while animal evidence is consistent, more long-term human studies are needed to fully understand the endocrine effects of ELF-EMF exposure. The authors recommended continued research and potential policy measures to address cumulative daily exposure from electrical infrastructure.
According to the review, the endocrine system’s role in mediating stress responses and maintaining homeostasis makes it a prime candidate for manifesting subtle biological responses to environmental disturbances.
The authors advised that individuals can take simple steps to reduce exposure, such as measuring EMF levels and implementing basic precautions. Further studies should focus on human populations exposed to elevated ELF-EMF from power lines and substations over long periods.
References
- NaturalNews.com. "Study Links Childhood Exposure to Low Frequency Magnetic Fields with Increased Brain Tumor Risk." March 21, 2026.
- Lance D Johnson. "New study confirms everyday electromagnetic fields fuel childhood brain tumor risk." NaturalNews.com. March 4, 2026.
- Ann Louise Gittleman. "Zapped."
- ANH International. "Council of Europe Report Calls for Ban on Mobile Phones and Wireless Networks in Schools." May 25, 2011.
- M. Sara Rosenthal. "The Natural Woman's Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy: An Alternative Approach."
- Children's Health Defense. "Health Impacts."
- EHN.org. "Electromagnetic radiation from power lines linked to hormone disruption". June 19, 2026.
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