Andrew Torba, the founder of Gab, claimed that Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected shooter in the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, had an account on Gab under the handle @epicmicrowave. Torba shared this information on X (formerly Twitter), stating that Gab had saved the account data and was ready to turn it over to authorities pending a search warrant. The account was reportedly last active in 2021 and had made only nine posts, mostly in support of Joe Biden (The Daily Dot) (The Independent).
The Daily Dot was unable to immediately verify the posts shared by Torba, but they did find an account matching the description, which had been removed but later reinstated (The Daily Dot). The Independent provided further context on Crooks, including details about his family and background. Crooks was identified by the FBI after he was killed by a Secret Service sniper during the attempted shooting at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania (The Independent).
The Role of Microwaves and Cell Phone Radiation
Microwave Radiation and Health Effects: Microwave radiation, a type of non-ionizing radiation, is commonly emitted by cell phones and other wireless devices. Studies have indicated that prolonged exposure to this kind of radiation can have various biological effects.
- Hormonal Impact:
- Testosterone Levels: Research has shown that exposure to microwave radiation can alter hormone levels, including testosterone. A study published in the “Journal of Andrology” found that prolonged exposure to cell phone radiation can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in male rats, potentially affecting puberty and reproductive health (The Daily Dot).
- Puberty and Development: Hormonal imbalances during puberty, a critical developmental period, can have lasting effects on physical and mental health. Disruptions caused by external factors like RFR (radiofrequency radiation) could complicate this already challenging stage of life.
- Brain and Behavioral Effects:
- Cognitive Function: Research indicates that microwave radiation can affect brain function. For instance, a study in the “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” highlighted that RFR exposure could lead to cognitive deficits and behavioral changes (TMZ).
- Mental Health: Chronic exposure to cell phone radiation has been linked to changes in brain activity, potentially contributing to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues (TMZ).
- Cancer and Other Health Risks:
- Cancer Risks: The National Toxicology Program (NTP) conducted studies that found clear evidence of carcinogenic activity in rats exposed to high levels of cell phone radiation. This research underscores the potential risks of long-term exposure to microwave radiation (TMZ) (The Independent).
- Non-Thermal Effects: Current FCC guidelines primarily focus on thermal effects (heating of tissues), but many scientists argue that non-thermal biological effects are equally important. These can include oxidative stress, DNA damage, and other cellular disruptions (TMZ).
The Need for Updated Guidelines and Research
Outdated FCC Guidelines: The FCC’s safety guidelines for cell phone radiation are based on standards established in the 1990s, which do not account for non-thermal effects. Given the advancements in technology and the growing body of evidence highlighting non-thermal bioeffects, there is a strong case for updating these guidelines to better protect public health (The Independent).
Research Funding and Policy: The Biden administration’s decision to end funding for the NTP’s research into the health effects of RFR is concerning. This research is crucial for understanding the full spectrum of risks associated with cell phone radiation and developing protective measures for the public (The Independent).
Broader Societal Implications
Public Health and Policy:
- Educational Campaigns: Increasing public awareness about the potential risks of cell phone radiation and promoting safer usage practices is essential.
- Regulatory Actions: Policymakers need to consider the latest scientific findings and implement regulations that reflect current knowledge about microwave radiation’s health effects.
Personal Actions:
- Minimizing Exposure: Using speakerphone, wired headsets, or air-tube headsets, and keeping devices away from the body can help reduce exposure.
- Monitoring Health: Being vigilant about any health changes and consulting healthcare providers about potential RFR exposure can be proactive steps.
Conclusion
While the debate around the alias @epicmicrowave and its implications is intriguing, the more pressing issue is the potential health effects of cell phone radiation on the population, especially on vulnerable groups like teenagers. The need for updated research, better public awareness, and revised safety guidelines cannot be overstated. By addressing these concerns with real science and peer-reviewed studies, we can better protect the health and well-being of future generations.