Auto-induced uplink 4G and 5G RF-EMF exposure assessment using a network monitoring application in different microenvironments across seven European countries

Authors: Stroobandt B, Van Bladel H, Veludo AF, Deprez K, Aerts S, Verloock L, Thuróczy G, Politanski P, Polanska K, Tognola G, Parazzini M, Wiart J, Guxens M, Röösli M, Joseph W

Year: 2025

Category: Environmental Research

Journal: Environmental Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.121029

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935125002804

Abstract

Overview

The auto-induced uplink (a-UL) radio-frequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF), often the dominant part of the total RF-EMF exposure, has not been included in previous microenvironmental studies. This study focuses on personal exposure assessments in Europe.

Methodology

A novel approach was used involving the network monitoring application QualiPoc for assessing 4G and 5G networks. The study covered 282 different microenvironments such as parks and residential areas across seven European countries.

Findings

  • Spatial differences in average mobile phone transmit power were documented.
  • Higher transmit powers were found in villages compared to big cities, with 5G transmit powers about 3.3 dB lower than 4G.
  • Base station density is a significant predictor of a-UL exposure.
  • The study also notes that average transmit powers for 5G were lowest in frequency bands with a time division duplexing (TDD) scheme, influenced by low uplink duty cycles (<20%).

Conclusion

This extensive assessment provides critical data needed for epidemiologists and governments to better understand the a-UL component of RF-EMF personal exposure.

RF-EMF exposure 4G 5G environmental study network monitoring Europe mobile phone usage
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