A clinical study of artificial hyperthermia induced by high frequency currents
Bishop FW, Horton CB, Warren SL · 1932
1932 clinical research proved radiofrequency energy creates measurable biological effects in humans through deliberate tissue heating.
Plain English Summary
This 1932 clinical study examined using high-frequency electromagnetic currents to artificially induce hyperthermia (elevated body temperature) in human patients. The research investigated radiofrequency energy as a medical treatment method, exploring how electromagnetic fields could generate therapeutic heat within the body. This represents some of the earliest documented clinical use of RF energy for deliberate biological effects in humans.
Why This Matters
This 1932 research marks a pivotal moment in our understanding of how radiofrequency energy interacts with human biology. While conducted for therapeutic purposes, this study demonstrates that RF fields can produce measurable biological effects - specifically generating heat deep within body tissues. The science shows that electromagnetic energy doesn't just pass harmlessly through us; it deposits energy and creates physiological changes.
What makes this historically significant is the timing. In 1932, researchers already recognized that RF energy could deliberately alter human physiology. Today, we carry devices that emit similar frequencies constantly, yet we're told these exposures are too weak to matter. The reality is that any energy capable of therapeutic heating at higher intensities can potentially cause subtler effects at the lower levels we encounter daily from wireless devices.
Figures from the Original Paper
Diagrams extracted from the original research document.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study. Duration: 5 hours
Study Details
To investigate the use of artificial hyperthermia induced by high frequency currents as a therapeutic method for various medical conditions, particularly focusing on safety and clinical effectiveness.
High frequency currents were passed through the body using large block-tin electrodes (28 by 46 to 6...
One hundred treatments were given to 57 patients from February 1930 to August 1931. The artificial h...
Artificial hyperthermia can be carefully and accurately controlled by a standardized procedure well within the scope of the average hospital. The whole body temperature is elevated by the passage of high frequency currents through the trunk by means of large block-tin electrodes. The temperature is maintained at any desired level below 42°C for 5 hours without danger to a patient in ordinary physical condition. The method is effective for treating various conditions including paresis, arthritis, and gonorrheal infections.
Show BibTeX
@article{a_clinical_study_of_artificial_hyperthermia_induced_by_high_frequency_currents_g6583,
author = {Bishop FW and Horton CB and Warren SL},
title = {A clinical study of artificial hyperthermia induced by high frequency currents},
year = {1932},
}