IARC Monograph - Non-ionizing Radiation - Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields

IARC Monographs Volume 102 addresses the carcinogenic risks of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields to humans, representing the second volume on non-ionizing radiation after Volume 80 on static and extremely low-frequency fields. This volume evaluates RF radiation within the 30 kHz to 300 GHz frequency range, which is widely emitted by wireless telecommunications devices, including mobile phones, as well as other occupational and environmental sources. Exposure to RF radiation is pervasive in developed nations and rapidly increasing globally due to mobile phone use. The monograph responds to significant public and scientific concern regarding potential cancer risks, particularly brain cancer, associated with RF exposure from mobile phones. This concern is heightened by epidemiological studies suggesting elevated cancer risks, extensive media coverage, and widespread exposure extending to children. Notably, while incorporating data such as from the large INTERPHONE case-control study (2000–2004), the volume evaluates carcinogenicity of RF radiation broadly rather than exclusively mobile phones. It examines evidence from human epidemiology, experimental animal studies, and other relevant data sources to assess whether RF radiation causes cancer. Importantly, the monograph focuses solely on carcinogenic potential and does not quantify specific cancer risk magnitudes nor address other health effects of RF radiation. Volume 102 thus serves as an authoritative, impartial scientific assessment aimed at informing public health authorities, regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and the general public about the carcinogenic hazard posed by RF electromagnetic fields in the context of increasing global exposure.