Biological effects and mechanisms of shortwave radiation: a review

• Main Authors: Chao Yu, Rui-Yun Peng
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2017-07-01
• Series: Military Medical Research
• Subjects: Shortwave; Electromagnetic radiation; Biological effects
• Online Access: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40779-017-0133-6

Abstract With the increasing knowledge of shortwave radiation, it is widely used in wireless communications, radar observations, industrial manufacturing, and medical treatments. Despite of the benefits from shortwave, these wide applications expose humans to the risk of shortwave electromagnetic radiation, which is alleged to cause potential damage to biological systems. This review focused on the exposure to shortwave electromagnetic radiation, considering in vitro, in vivo and epidemiological results that have provided insight into the biological effects and mechanisms of shortwave. Additionally, some protective measures and suggestions are discussed here in the hope of obtaining more benefits from shortwave with fewer health risks.