Scientific literature on biological effects of radio frequency radiation: criteria for evaluation

There are a number of general principles that should be applied to the evaluation of the scientific literature, to determine the probability of biological effects being caused by exposure to radio-frequency (RF) radiation. Specifically, before the claims of positive or negative effects in an individual report are accepted into the body of established scientific knowledge, that report should meet the criteria discussed. In analyzing the scientific literature to determine the probability of a biological response from exposure to RF energy, one must consider (1) the consistency of experimental results claimed, (2) the nature of the response and the biological system involved, (3) the ability to consistently replicate the results, and (4) whether results claimed and observations reported can be explained by previously accepted biological principles, or must be explained only on the basis of new, untested hypotheses.