In this era of smart phones, smart meters, and smart houses, it may seem absurd to even ask the question: Are wireless routers safe?
Before you assume a negative response, I ask you to consider that once upon a time (I list historical assumptions stated at fight-parkinsons.org/5g-a-cause-for-alarm):
In all seriousness I ask these questions: Are wireless routers safe? Is there evidence that radiation from wireless routers can damage human health?
The radiation from wireless routers
Wireless routers emit radio frequency radiation of 2.4 or 5.0 gigahertz, which is in the microwave portion (300 MHz to 300 GHz frequency, or 1 meter to 1 millimeter wavelength) of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Following are some abbreviations and terms that relate to the emissions from wireless routers:
Since May 31, 2011, the WHO/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on an increased risk for glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use. This is a big step forward in recognizing the serious risks to human health posed by cell phones and similar EMF-emitting devices. However, some scientists say the IARC classification, which only references risk for glioma, is still not strong enough, and that RF should have been classified as a ‘Probable Human Carcinogen’ (Class 2A) based the existing science.
The effects of wireless router radiation
What are some of the effects of wireless router radiation?
From Physicians for Safe Technology:
Martin Pall, PhD (2018) has written thorough review of 23 controlled scientific studies on non-thermal Wi-Fi radiation and health related effects in animals, human cells and in humans. He documents sperm/testicular damage, neuropsychiatric abnormalities with EEG changes, endocrine changes, oxidative stress, cellular DNA, ptosis (cell death) and calcium overload. He notes that pulsed waves, which are typically used in wireless devices are much more damaging to cellular structures and effects are non-linear meaning there is not a typical dose response curve. Dr Pall also highlights research showing these effects can be cumulative and irreversible.
From "Groundbreaking Study Shows Shielding EMF Improves Autoimmune Disease":
These organelles [our cellular energy factories, the mitochondria] are fundamental to every energy-dependent process in the body but especially quintessential for the energy-demanding nervous system. Thus, EMF-mediated changes in mitochondrial function may affect cognition and even perpetuate development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in which mitochondrial dysfunction has been demonstrated. In fact, EMF-induced disruption of mitochondria may play a role in many diseases in which mitochondrial collapse is implicated, including psychiatric disorders, autoimmune diseases, migraine headaches, ataxia, stroke, diabetes, heart disease, neuropathic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and liver disease (22, 23).
22. Neustadt, J., & Pieczenik, S.R. (2008). Medication-induced mitochondrial damage and disease. Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, 52, 780-788.
23. Pieczenik, S.R., & Neustadt, J. (2007). Mitochondrial dysfunction and molecular pathways of disease. Experimental and Molecular Pathology, 83, 84-92.
From "Effects of electromagnetic field exposure on the heart: a systematic review" 2016 January
Abstract
The use of electrical devices has gradually increased throughout the last century, and scientists have suggested that electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by such devices may have harmful effects on living creatures. This work represents a systematic review of collective scholarly literature examining the effects of EMFs on the heart. ... Until the effects of EMF on heart tissue are more fully explored, electronic devices generating EMFs should be approached with caution.
From "Effects of 2.4 GHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi equipment on microRNA expression in brain tissue" 2015 July
Abstract
Purpose: MicroRNAs (miRNA) play a paramount role in growth, differentiation, proliferation and cell death by suppressing one or more target genes. However, their interaction with radiofrequencies is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term effects of radiofrequency radiation emitted from a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) system on some of the miRNA in brain tissue.
...
Conclusion: Long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz RF may lead to adverse effects such as neurodegenerative diseases originated from the alteration of some miRNA expression and more studies should be devoted to the effects of RF radiation on miRNA expression levels.
From "Effect of long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi equipment on testes functions" 2015 March
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate long-term effects of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted from a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) system on testes. ... In conclusion, we observed that long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz RF emitted from Wi-Fi (2420 µW/kg, 1 g average) affects some of the reproductive parameters of male rats. We suggest Wi-Fi users to avoid long-term exposure of RF emissions from Wi-Fi equipment.
From "Radiation from wireless technology affects the blood, the heart, and the autonomic nervous system" 2013
Abstract
Exposure to electrosmog generated by electric, electronic, and wireless technology is accelerating to the point that a portion of the population is experiencing adverse reactions when they are exposed. The symptoms of electrohypersensitivity (EHS), best described as rapid aging syndrome, experienced by adults and children resemble symptoms experienced by radar operators in the 1940s to the 1960s and are well described in the literature. An increasingly common response includes clumping (rouleau formation) of the red blood cells, heart palpitations, pain or pressure in the chest accompanied by anxiety, and an upregulation of the sympathetic nervous system coincident with a downregulation of the parasympathetic nervous system typical of the "fight-or-flight" response. Provocation studies presented in this article demonstrate that the response to electrosmog is physiologic and not psychosomatic. Those who experience prolonged and severe EHS may develop psychologic problems as a consequence of their inability to work, their limited ability to travel in our highly technologic environment, and the social stigma that their symptoms are imagined rather than real.
Following are links to a few other research article abstracts:
In September 2013 Dr. Barrie Trower, a former Royal Navy Microwave Weapons Expert and former cold-war captured spy debriefer for the UK Intelligence Services, wrote a report titled "Wi-Fi – A Thalidomide in the Making. Who Cares?". The abstract reads as follows:
As stated by University Researchers, Government Scientists and International Scientific Advisors; a minimum of 57.7% of schoolgirls exposed to low-level microwave radiation (Wi-fi) are at risk of suffering stillbirth, foetal abnormalities or genetically damaged children, when they give birth. Any genetic damage may pass to successive generations.
Alternative to wireless router
As an alternative to a wireless router you can use a wired router. A wired network is:
EMF Hazards Summit
For more information on EMF hazards and how to deal with them, watch the four-day EMF hazards virtual summit scheduled for Sept. 30 to Oct. 3, 2021. The summit is hosted by Nicolas Pinault and features a variety of EMF experts. Each day's session begins at 9:00 a.m. EDT and is viewable for free for 24 hours. See https://emfhazards.com.
Conclusions
Scientific research raises serious concerns about the safety of wireless routers. EMFs have been shown to negatively affect mitochondrial function. EMFs:
A wired router has several advantages.
For more information
For more information, see:
Before you assume a negative response, I ask you to consider that once upon a time (I list historical assumptions stated at fight-parkinsons.org/5g-a-cause-for-alarm):
- Smoking was good for you.
- Thalidomide was great for morning sickness.
- Asbestos was a benign form of insulation.
- Nuclear power was the way to go.
- And hydrogenated oils were a cost-effective healthy choice.
In all seriousness I ask these questions: Are wireless routers safe? Is there evidence that radiation from wireless routers can damage human health?
The radiation from wireless routers
Wireless routers emit radio frequency radiation of 2.4 or 5.0 gigahertz, which is in the microwave portion (300 MHz to 300 GHz frequency, or 1 meter to 1 millimeter wavelength) of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Following are some abbreviations and terms that relate to the emissions from wireless routers:
- Electrosmog: invisible pollution consisting of electromagnetic radiation; the combined electromagnetic radiation in the atmosphere
- EMF: electromagnetic field, or electromagnetic frequency
- EMR: electromagnetic radiation
- RFR: radio frequency radiation
Since May 31, 2011, the WHO/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on an increased risk for glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use. This is a big step forward in recognizing the serious risks to human health posed by cell phones and similar EMF-emitting devices. However, some scientists say the IARC classification, which only references risk for glioma, is still not strong enough, and that RF should have been classified as a ‘Probable Human Carcinogen’ (Class 2A) based the existing science.
The effects of wireless router radiation
What are some of the effects of wireless router radiation?
From Physicians for Safe Technology:
Martin Pall, PhD (2018) has written thorough review of 23 controlled scientific studies on non-thermal Wi-Fi radiation and health related effects in animals, human cells and in humans. He documents sperm/testicular damage, neuropsychiatric abnormalities with EEG changes, endocrine changes, oxidative stress, cellular DNA, ptosis (cell death) and calcium overload. He notes that pulsed waves, which are typically used in wireless devices are much more damaging to cellular structures and effects are non-linear meaning there is not a typical dose response curve. Dr Pall also highlights research showing these effects can be cumulative and irreversible.
From "Groundbreaking Study Shows Shielding EMF Improves Autoimmune Disease":
These organelles [our cellular energy factories, the mitochondria] are fundamental to every energy-dependent process in the body but especially quintessential for the energy-demanding nervous system. Thus, EMF-mediated changes in mitochondrial function may affect cognition and even perpetuate development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in which mitochondrial dysfunction has been demonstrated. In fact, EMF-induced disruption of mitochondria may play a role in many diseases in which mitochondrial collapse is implicated, including psychiatric disorders, autoimmune diseases, migraine headaches, ataxia, stroke, diabetes, heart disease, neuropathic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and liver disease (22, 23).
22. Neustadt, J., & Pieczenik, S.R. (2008). Medication-induced mitochondrial damage and disease. Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, 52, 780-788.
23. Pieczenik, S.R., & Neustadt, J. (2007). Mitochondrial dysfunction and molecular pathways of disease. Experimental and Molecular Pathology, 83, 84-92.
From "Effects of electromagnetic field exposure on the heart: a systematic review" 2016 January
Abstract
The use of electrical devices has gradually increased throughout the last century, and scientists have suggested that electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by such devices may have harmful effects on living creatures. This work represents a systematic review of collective scholarly literature examining the effects of EMFs on the heart. ... Until the effects of EMF on heart tissue are more fully explored, electronic devices generating EMFs should be approached with caution.
From "Effects of 2.4 GHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi equipment on microRNA expression in brain tissue" 2015 July
Abstract
Purpose: MicroRNAs (miRNA) play a paramount role in growth, differentiation, proliferation and cell death by suppressing one or more target genes. However, their interaction with radiofrequencies is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term effects of radiofrequency radiation emitted from a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) system on some of the miRNA in brain tissue.
...
Conclusion: Long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz RF may lead to adverse effects such as neurodegenerative diseases originated from the alteration of some miRNA expression and more studies should be devoted to the effects of RF radiation on miRNA expression levels.
From "Effect of long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi equipment on testes functions" 2015 March
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate long-term effects of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted from a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) system on testes. ... In conclusion, we observed that long-term exposure of 2.4 GHz RF emitted from Wi-Fi (2420 µW/kg, 1 g average) affects some of the reproductive parameters of male rats. We suggest Wi-Fi users to avoid long-term exposure of RF emissions from Wi-Fi equipment.
From "Radiation from wireless technology affects the blood, the heart, and the autonomic nervous system" 2013
Abstract
Exposure to electrosmog generated by electric, electronic, and wireless technology is accelerating to the point that a portion of the population is experiencing adverse reactions when they are exposed. The symptoms of electrohypersensitivity (EHS), best described as rapid aging syndrome, experienced by adults and children resemble symptoms experienced by radar operators in the 1940s to the 1960s and are well described in the literature. An increasingly common response includes clumping (rouleau formation) of the red blood cells, heart palpitations, pain or pressure in the chest accompanied by anxiety, and an upregulation of the sympathetic nervous system coincident with a downregulation of the parasympathetic nervous system typical of the "fight-or-flight" response. Provocation studies presented in this article demonstrate that the response to electrosmog is physiologic and not psychosomatic. Those who experience prolonged and severe EHS may develop psychologic problems as a consequence of their inability to work, their limited ability to travel in our highly technologic environment, and the social stigma that their symptoms are imagined rather than real.
Following are links to a few other research article abstracts:
- "Radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) causes impaired insulin secretion and increased oxidative stress in rat pancreatic islets." 2018 August
- "The results of this animal study suggest that low level microwave exposure at frequencies of 900, 1800, and 2450 MHz may lead to hazardous effects on brain" 2016 December
- "Electromagnetic radiation from Wi-Fi or cell phones placed within 10cm of cell cultures results in increased oxidative stress and apoptosis" 2015 October
- "Use of laptop computers connected to internet through Wi-Fi decreases human sperm motility and increases sperm DNA fragmentation" 2011 November
In September 2013 Dr. Barrie Trower, a former Royal Navy Microwave Weapons Expert and former cold-war captured spy debriefer for the UK Intelligence Services, wrote a report titled "Wi-Fi – A Thalidomide in the Making. Who Cares?". The abstract reads as follows:
As stated by University Researchers, Government Scientists and International Scientific Advisors; a minimum of 57.7% of schoolgirls exposed to low-level microwave radiation (Wi-fi) are at risk of suffering stillbirth, foetal abnormalities or genetically damaged children, when they give birth. Any genetic damage may pass to successive generations.
Alternative to wireless router
As an alternative to a wireless router you can use a wired router. A wired network is:
- Safer
- More secure
- More reliable
- Easier to set up and connect
- Usually faster
EMF Hazards Summit
For more information on EMF hazards and how to deal with them, watch the four-day EMF hazards virtual summit scheduled for Sept. 30 to Oct. 3, 2021. The summit is hosted by Nicolas Pinault and features a variety of EMF experts. Each day's session begins at 9:00 a.m. EDT and is viewable for free for 24 hours. See https://emfhazards.com.
Conclusions
Scientific research raises serious concerns about the safety of wireless routers. EMFs have been shown to negatively affect mitochondrial function. EMFs:
- May affect cognition
- May perpetuate development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
- May play a role in many diseases in which mitochondrial collapse is implicated, including:
• psychiatric disorders
• autoimmune diseases
• migraine headaches
• ataxia
• stroke
• diabetes
• heart disease
• neuropathic pain
• chronic fatigue syndrome
• fibromyalgia
• liver disease
A wired router has several advantages.
For more information
For more information, see:
- A New Allergy, Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity
- Center for Electrosmog Prevention
- Dr. Magda Havas, PhD: "Welcome to my personal website – dedicated to the study of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR)."
- Dr. Zory Glaser: "Dr. Zory Glaser has donated his RF/Microwave research archives to Professor Magda Havas of Trent University."
- Is ‘electrosmog’ harming our health? Electrical pollution from cell phones and WiFi may be hazardous
- Independent Science on the Effects of Wireless Radiation on Human Health and the Environment
- Wireless Radiation: An Undeniable Risk to Human Health