Radiofrequency and temporally stable 60-Hz exposures were associated with increased estrogen metabolite excretion among postmenopausal women. Women with low nocturnal melatonin may be particularly susceptible.

PMID: 

J Occup Environ Med. 2007 Oct ;49(10):1149-56. PMID: 18000420

Abstract Title: 

Biomonitoring of estrogen and melatonin metabolites among women residing near radio and television broadcasting transmitters.

Abstract: 

OBJECTIVES: Metabolites of estrogen (estrone-3-glucuronide [E1G]) and melatonin (6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate [6-OHMS]) were characterized among women living in a community with increased radiofrequency (RF) exposure from radio and television transmitters.METHODS: RF spot measurements, and personal 60-Hz magnetic field and residential parameters were collected. Overnight urine samples were assayed for E1G and 6-OHMS excretion.RESULTS: Among premenopausal women, there were no associations between RF or 60-Hz nonionizing radiation and E1G or 6-OHMS excretion. Among postmenopausal women, increased residential RF exposures, transmitter proximity and visibility, and temporally stable 60-Hz exposures were significantly associated with increased E1G excretion. This association was strongest among postmenopausal women with low overnight 6-OHMS levels.CONCLUSIONS: RF and temporally stable 60-Hz exposures were associated with increased E1G excretion among postmenopausal women. Women with reduced nocturnal 6-OHMS excretion may represent a sensitive subgroup.

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