Health Safety Guidelines and 5G Wireless Radiation

Authors: James C. Lin

Year: 01/2022

Category: Health Safety

Journal: IEEE Microwave Magazine

DOI: 10.1109/MMM.2021.3117307

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9632507

Abstract

Overview

The abstract discusses the deployment of 5G technology globally, emphasizing its advancement over previous generations like 3G and 4G. It highlights the use of millimeter-wave and phased-array technologies that enhance data rates and reduce latency. However, concerns are raised about its possible use for spying, which is noted as a system architecture issue rather than a biological or health concern.

Health Concerns

  • The text questions whether biological responses to high-band 5G radiation are similar to those from previous generations, noting the need for research into mm-waves' interaction with human tissues like the skin and eyes.
  • Recent revisions of RF health safety guidelines, influenced by industry interests, focus primarily on thermal effects and are perceived as insufficient for ensuring public safety.

Research Findings and Concerns

Description of empirical research indicates that the results are mixed and insufficient to conclusively link mm-wave exposure to consistent biological effects. Additionally, current safety recommendations, which may underestimate risks such as tissue warming, are criticized for marginal safety factors and a lack of comprehensive protective measures against potential carcinogenic effects of elevated temperatures.

Conclusion

The author concludes that despite advancements in 5G technology, the associated health safety guidelines are not sufficiently robust to address potential non-thermal risks, and the scientific data remains too limited to make reliable safety assessments.

← Back to Stats