Systematic review on the physiological and health-related effects of 5G-relevant radiofrequency fields (3-4 GHz and 20-30 GHz) [protocol]

Authors: Bodewein L, Dechent D, Emonds T, Graefrath D, Krabbe J, Scheelhaase PJ, Schmid G, Schneeweiss P, Driessen S

Year: 2022

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: PROSPERO

Institution: Research Center for Bioelectromagnetic Interaction (femu) - Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

DOI: CRD42022374434

URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=374434

Abstract

Overview

The introduction of the 5G mobile communications standard has sparked debates surrounding the potential health risks associated with new frequency ranges. Existing mobile communications (approx. 800 MHz–3 GHz) are thought to pose no health risk below international limits, but 5G utilizes higher frequencies (3–30 GHz), which are less studied.

Findings

  • Higher frequencies may lead to more energy absorption on the body surface, possibly altering the sites of effects.
  • The systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of physiological or health-related effects of 5G-relevant frequencies (3-4 GHz and 20-30 GHz) in humans and mammals.

Conclusion

With limited studies available on the higher frequencies used by 5G, it is crucial to carry out thorough research to ascertain their safety. Further research will address whether these frequencies affect health differently compared to lower frequencies used in past mobile communications.

5G radiofrequency health risks electromagnetic fields experimental studies observational studies
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