US Navy personnel with occupational exposure to microwave radiation were studied for health effects. Those reviewed graduated from Navy technical schools in the period between 1950-54. Approximately 20,000 men who had maximum exposure, and a similar number with minimal exposure took part in the study. Exposure was based on service records. Actual exposure of individuals could not be measured. Mortality, hospitalisation and disability were the outcomes determined. Adverse effects were not detected.

The strengths of this study were the size of the cohorts and the quality of the records relating to outcomes. Weaknesses of the study were the inability to accurately measure exposure, or to consider other possible factors that could have affected the outcomes. A control group with no exposure to microwave radiation would have strengthened the study.