Explosive increase: Children struggle with memory

Norwegians are increasingly going to the doctor because they struggle with their memory. Among children aged 5–14, the number of doctor visits has almost tripled in recent years.

• The number of doctor visits for memory disorders has increased sharply, also among children aged 5–14.

• Researcher Richard Aubrey White believes that late effects of covid-19 may be an important reason for the increase, based on data showing an increase in memory problems after pandemic waves.

• Brain researcher Marte Roa Syvertsen points to screen use and social media as possible causes, and emphasizes the importance of sleep, physical activity and social contact.

In an article published by NRK on June 26, 2025 with the headline "Explosive increase - children struggle with memory", experts sound the alarm. More and more young people are unable to keep up, have poor memory and struggle to organize their thoughts. Causes such as mental stress, screen use and the after-effects of the pandemic are highlighted. All of these are highly relevant explanations.

But one possible influencing factor is not mentioned with a single word: electromagnetic radiation (EMF) from wireless technology.

Memory problems are also increasing in Sweden
The number of people, including children, who have visited a doctor for memory problems (mild cognitive disorder, subjective), which is a diagnosis included in the diagnosis code R41 (other symptoms and signs of illness that involve perception and perception), is also increasing in Sweden. The increase in the age group 5-19 years began in 2011 according to the National Board of Health and Welfare's statistics on the number of cases in open specialist care. In 2011, 577 children were registered with diagnosis R41 as the main diagnosis, which includes mild cognitive disorder. By 2024, the number had increased to 5,975, an increase of ten times. See diagram, source: National Board of Health and Welfare.

A sea of radiation – that we pretend does not exist?
Today's children literally live in an invisible field of microwave radiation. WiFi at school and at home, tablets on their laps, smartwatches, mobile phones – and increasingly dense mobile coverage.

At the same time, it is worth noting: The explosive increase in memory problems coincides in time with the rollout of the 5G network, which provides higher frequencies and denser transmitters. The timeline overlaps with the pandemic, yes – but also with a dramatic increase in children and young people's exposure to new forms of wireless radiation.

Is it a coincidence? Maybe. But do we know enough to rule out a connection? Definitely not.

The growing brain – and in the crossfire?
Research has shown that children's heads absorb more radiation than adults. The brain develops rapidly and neurological processes are extra vulnerable. International studies have pointed to biological effects of EMF such as sleep disorders, altered brain activity and oxidative stress. Yet these findings are barely noticed in Norwegian health policy.

It's not about ignoring other factors. It's about getting everyone involved – even those who are uncomfortable to mention.

Children who get sick – and are not believed
More children and adults in Norway are today developing what is called electrohypersensitivity: They get sick from radiation. Headaches, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, nausea. But instead of to be met with curiosity and care, they are often dismissed – because "the research has not proven it".

But science is never finished. And the lack of clear evidence is not proof of the lack of effect.

Why aren't we researching this?
There is hardly any publicly funded research in Norway investigating how EMF affects children's brains. The field is characterized by low interest, limited funding – and powerful actors with strong financial interests in keeping the debate dead.

And this is not the first time we have seen this pattern:

We took for granted that asbestos, lead in gasoline and cigarette smoke were safe – until they weren't. For decades, those who warned of these dangers were met with mockery and skepticism. Big companies used their power to educate the research, sow doubt and label whistleblowers as frivolous. We called them "fanatics" and "alarmists" – until the harm became impossible to ignore.

History repeats itself – and this time it concerns children's brains.

Now is the time

We don't need to panic. But we need action.

• Demand independent research on EMF and children's brain health.
• Map exposure in schools and preschools.
• Reintroduce the precautionary principle for new technology.
• Stop labeling those who ask questions as frivolous.

This is not about being against technology – it's about being for our children.

The texts above are taken from:
The Swedish Radiation Protection Foundation
EMF Perspective
NRK