Cell phone radiation and its potential impact on Alzheimer’s disease is a topic of ongoing scientific investigation, with current evidence neither conclusively proving harm nor fully dismissing possible risks. Cell phones emit radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), a type of non-ionizing radiation, typically in the range of 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz, similar to frequencies used in Wi-Fi and other wireless technologies. The concern arises from whether prolonged exposure to this radiation could contribute to neurodegenerative processes such as those seen in Alzheimer’s disease.
One of the key biological mechanisms under scrutiny is oxidative stress, which refers to an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage. Oxidative stress is well-established as a factor in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease, as it can damage neurons and affect brain function. Several studies have reported that exposure to wireless radiation, including that from cell phones and Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz, can increase oxidative stress markers in cells and tissues. This suggests that RF-EMF exposure might exacerbate cellular damage linked to neurodegeneration[1][2].
Research published in *Frontiers in Neurology* in 2025 reviewed the effects of wireless radiation on oxidative stress and gene expression related to Alzheimer’s disease. The review found that exposure to 2.4 GHz radiation could alter the expression of genes involved in DNA repair, metabolism, and neuronal health. Specifically, it noted a decrease in the expression of genes critical for glial cell function—cells that support and protect neurons in the brain. These changes could theoretically impair brain health and potentially worsen conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. However, the authors emphasized that these findings do not establish a direct causal link but highlight the need for further rigorous research to clarify these associations[1].
Another study examined the relationship between Wi-Fi radiation and genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease, such as GSK3B and APOE, which are known to play roles in neurodegeneration. The study suggested that prolonged exposure to Wi-Fi radiation might exacerbate the modification of these genes, potentially influencing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Despite these findings, the scientific community has not reached a consensus, and the evidence remains mixed and inconclusive. Alzheimer’s disease is multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, making it difficult to isolate the impact of cell phone radiation alone[2].
It is important to distinguish between ionizing radiation, which can directly damage DNA and cause cancer, and non-ionizing radiation like that from cell phones, which lacks sufficient energy to break chemical bonds. The biological effects of non-ionizing radiation are less clear and are thought to be subtler, possibly involving mechanisms like oxidative stress or changes in cellular signaling rather than direct DNA damage.
Some ongoing clinical trials are exploring the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) as a therapeutic intervention for Alzheimer’s disease, which indicates that electromagnetic fields can have complex effects on brain tissue, potentially beneficial or harmful depending on parameters such as frequency, intensity, and exposure duration[3]. This further complicates the understanding of how everyday exposure to cell phone radiation might influence Alzheimer’s disease risk or progression.
Regulatory and research bodies such as the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) continuously monitor scientific literature on electromagnetic fields and health. Their surveys indicate that while there is extensive research on RF-EMF exposure, no definitive evidence currently confirms that typical exposure levels from cell phones cause neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s[4].
In summary, while there is some evidence that cell phone radiation can induce oxidative stress and alter gene expression related to neuronal health, the current scientific consensus does not confirm that cell phone radiation is harmful or causative for Alzheimer’s disease. The relationship remains an active area of research, with calls for more rigorous, long-term studies to better understand potential risks. Until such evidence is available, it is prudent to follow existing safety guidelines for cell phone use and remain informed about new scientific developments.
Sources:
[1] Laván, David et al., Frontiers in Neurology, 2025
[2] PMC Article on Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and Alzheimer’s, National Institutes of Health
[3] Clinical trial on Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Treatment for Alzheimer’s, Herrick Medical LLC
[4] Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) Radiation Literature Survey
