Perceptions and Experiences About Device-Emitted Radiofrequency Radiation and Its Effects on Selected Brain Health Parameters in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction Radiofrequency radiation (RFR) is a form of non-ionising radiation that is used or emitted by a number of technologies and innovative devices including mobile phones and computers and gadgets. Exposure to RFR has been reported to have certain negative effects on human health. It is clear that quality and reliable data will be required with respect to the specific nature of RFR effects on mental health. This research considered the perceptions and exposure-related experiences of people within a Nigerian population with respect to RFR. Methods Structured and validated questionnaires were used to profile self-reported patterns of behaviour and sleep in humans. Questionnaire administration-electronic was opened for exactly one week, consisting of 25 specific questions and five open-ended questions [total = 30 questions]. A total population approach was adopted [N=~240]. Bivariate analysis using Chi-square tests were conducted to determine the association between knowledge of electronic gadgets as a source of radiofrequency radiation and sociodemographic characteristics of respondents. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with good knowledge of electronic gadgets as a source of radiofrequency radiation. The level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results The response rate was approximately 84%. Fatigue/tiredness [69.6%], attention deficit [69.1%] and headache [62.4%] ranked top amongst RFR-associated negative effects on mental health. Among the respondents, 29 (56.9%) among those above 20 years had good knowledge of radiofrequency radiation from electronic gadgets compared to 72 (47.2%) aged 20 years and below (X2 = 1.285, p = 0.257). Also, 45 (59.2%) of persons who lived in a town/village had good knowledge of radiofrequency radiation from electronic gadgets compared to 56 (44.4%) who lived in the city (X2 = 4.135, p = 0.042). Persons who lived in a town/village had nearly two times the odds of having good knowledge of RFR from electronic gadgets. Conclusion The study showed that respondents had experienced significant and negative effects of RFR on their mental health. The current level of knowledge and awareness on the nature of RFR and exposures was just about average, indicating a critical and urgent need to educate the public on the subject.