Personal radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure of adolescents in the Greater London area and the association with restrictions on permitted use of mobile communication technologies at school and at home

Authors: Claudia Schmutz, Alexandra Bürgler, Narain Ashta, Jana Soenksen, Yasmin Bou Karim, Chen Shen, Rachel B. Smith, Rosemary H. Jenkins, Michael O. Mireku, Julian Mutz, Mikaël J.A. Maes, Rosi Hirst, Irene Chang, Charlotte Fleming, Aamirah Mussa, Daphna Kesary, Darren Addison, Myron Maslanyj, Mireille B. Toledano, Martin Röösli, Marloes Eeftens

Year: 2022

Category: Environmental Research

Journal: Environmental Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113252

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935122005795

Abstract

Overview

This study characterizes personal exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) among adolescents in Greater London, exploring the impact of school and home regulations on mobile device usage.

Methodology

  • Measurements were conducted using ExpoM-RF devices, covering 16 frequency bands.
  • A total of 188 adolescents from the SCAMP cohort participated, recording personal activities and RF-EMF exposure.

Findings

Median total RF-EMF exposure was assessed during different activities and times of the day:

  • At home: 40 μW/m2
  • At school: 94 μW/m2
  • Overall: 100 μW/m2

Interestingly, school or home restrictions had minimal impact on lowering RF-EMF exposure, except in specific cases such as uplink exposure from mobile phones at schools prohibiting their use.

Conclusion

The study indicates that despite the potential health risks associated with higher exposure to RF-EMF, current school policies and parental controls in Greater London do not significantly reduce exposure levels in adolescents, compared to other parts of Europe.

adolescents radiofrequency electromagnetic fields mobile technology exposure SCAMP Greater London
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