Abstract

Abstract Overview

Addressing a knowledge gap regarding the longitudinal changes in radio-frequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposures due to technological changes in telecommunications, this study evaluates trend patterns over selected periods in Melbourne.

Methods Summary

• Exposures were measured in 18 micro-environments for the periods 2015-16 (baseline) and 2022 (follow-up).
• Data was analyzed using simultaneous quantile regression to assess changes in exposure levels, notably median and upper extremes.
• Exposures from different sources including mobile downlink/uplink, broadcast, and 5G were compared.

Key Findings

• Total median and extreme exposure levels across micro-environments showed no significant changes at follow up.
• Overall, exposure trend increased, with mobile downlink showing notable increments in median and overall exposure trends.
• A majority of micro-environment types exhibited increased median and upper extreme exposure levels at follow-up.

Conclusion

The study provides valuable insights into the evolution of RF-EMF exposure in urban environments, impacted by advancements in mobile technology.