Latest research on the possible effects of exposure to radiofrequency (RF) energy has raised concerns over the effects of radiations from mobile devices on sleeping habits.

A study carried out by Karolinska Institute (Sweden) and Wayne State University (USA) revealed that prolonged exposure (3 hours) to RF energy adversely affects the quality of sleep, and severely disrupts sleep patterns.

The study comprised 35 men and 36 women, aged between 18 and 45, who were exposed to mobile phone radiations as they prepared to sleep in three different sessions in the laboratory. The data collected during these sessions included self-reported symptoms such as headaches, cognitive functions, mood, and electroencephalographic recordings.

The participants were either exposed to sham exposure (sham) or 884MHz GSM wireless communication signals equivalent to those received when using a mobile phone.

In case of those exposed to actual exposure as against sham exposure, sleep was initiated a good one hour after affecting exposure. It took these people longer to enter the first of the deeper stages of sleep, and thus they spent less time in deepest sleep.

The study has revealed that during laboratory exposure to 884 MHz wireless signals, components of sleep that are believed to be significant for recovery from daily wear and tear are adversely affected.

Moreover, participants who otherwise had no self-reported symptoms related to mobile phone use, appeared to develop more headaches during actual RF exposure as compared to sham exposure.

The study was sponsored by the Mobile Manufacturers Forum, an industry group representing makers of cell phones.