A parent requests rigorous research on possible RF/EMF contributions to autism and gene-environment inter…

Re: Request for Information on Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs), Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation, and Wireless Radiation Exposure---Docket No. HHS-OASH-2026-0397 Submitted by: Tim Humlicek Missouri City, TX 77459 Perspective: Parent/family member of child with autism and member of the public Date: October 21, 2026 I appreciate HHS' request for information regarding EMS, radiofrequency radiation, wireless technologies, and human health. I am submitted these comments primarily concerned as a parent with a child of autism (ASD). I am not asking HHS to conclude that RF/EMF exposure causes ASD. I am asking that HHS recognize the substantial public-health importance of the question and support rigorous, independent investigation into whether RF/EMF exposure may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, either independently or through interaction with genetic susceptibility and other environmental factors. This distinction is important. The current evidence does not establish a causal relationship between RF/EMF exposure and autism. However, neither does the available evidence justify treating the question as resolved. There are several reasons why this subject warrants a coordinated federal research effort. 1. ASD is a common and increasingly identified neurodevelopmental condition with a highly heterogenous genetic architecture, yet a common group of symptoms. Most syndrome with a genetic cause have relatively few genetic causes, not thousands, as have been associated with ASD. Individuals should question shether these genetic findings could also be bystander effects in addition to contributing to ASD and associated comorbidities. 2. Genetic findings explain only part of the biological complexity of ASD, and gene-environmental interactions are increasingly being recognized. 3. Multiple biological processes implicated in ASD--including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, altered clacium signaling, immune dysregulation, cellular stress, and altered neuronal signaling--have also been investigated as potential effects of RF/EMF exposure 4. Experimental mammalian studies have reported neurodevelopmental, behavioral, oxidative, molecular, and cellular effects following controlled RF/EMF exposure. Although findings are inconsistent, exposure to RF/EMF in these models, generally produce detrimental effects. Controlling RF/EMF for humans is almost impossible in developed countries outside of radio quiet zones. 5. Children and developing fetuses represent biologically distinct populations for whom exposure assessment and risk evaluation may warrant particular attention. 6. Wireless RF exposure has become ubiquitous, while technologies, frequencies, modulation schemes, device densities, and cumulative exposure patterns continue to evolve. 7. Existing research frequently does not reproduce the complexity of real-world, chronic, developmental exposure The appropriate federal response to these uncertainties should therefore be a coordinated research program designed to determine whether an association exists, under what exposure conditions it might occur, and whether susceptible developmental windows or biological subgroups can be identified. While research can continue to elucidate associations between RF/EMF radiation and neurodevelopmental disorders, the department of HHS could bing awareness of the possible physiological effects of RF/EMF, and simply recommend those caring for vulnerable population take simple measures to measure and reduce overall exposure, such as limiting the use of wireless devices, turning off WiFi routers during periods of limited need, and working with other governmental agencies overseeing application for wireless towers built for public use, and allowing for ample time for public comment and assessment. Sincerely, Tim Humlicek, PharmD Missouri City, TX