Abstract

Abstract

Overview

Recent deployments of 5G base stations in Stockholm, Sweden, and globally have been conducted without prior investigations into potential risks to human health and the environment. This study extends ongoing work measuring environmental exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation in the region, now including 5G alongside previous telecommunications generations.

Methods

Measurements were taken using the broadband meter Narda-550 with probe EF-1891 in October 2023, focusing on root mean square (RMS) levels of RF radiation, which are used in guidelines by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Findings

• An increase in RF radiation levels has been observed post-5G deployment in comparison to previous studies.
• Exceptionally high RF radiation levels were recorded at key locations in Stockholm, including the Central Railway Station (3,637,191 μW/m2), Mäster Samuelsgatan (11,613,976 μW/m2), and Drottninggatan (5,271,555 μW/m2).
• The observed levels are comparable to or exceed those associated with the rapid onset of microwave syndrome symptoms and historical data linking RF exposure to cancer risks in residents near older telecommunications infrastructure.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the need for comprehensive health and environmental impact assessments prior to the adoption of new telecommunications technologies like 5G.