Implications of mmWave Radiation on Human Health: State of the Art Threshold Levels

Abstract

Overview

millimeter (mmWave) frequencies range from 30GHz to 300GHz on the electromagnetic spectrum and are increasingly utilized in various applications, including next-generation wireless communication systems, medical devices, airport security, and automatic collision avoidance systems.

Findings

This study conducts a thorough review of nascent literature focusing on the biological effects and epidemiological studies related to mmWave radiation in humans. It presents up-to-date guidelines and quantitative electromagnetic field (EMF) thresholds considering realistic exposure scenarios for the general public and occupational groups exposed to wireless communication sources daily.

• Health Risks: The study highlights the potential adverse health effects due to both continuous and discontinuous, short-term and long-term RF EMFs exposures at mmWave frequency bands.
• Safety Measures: Necessary precautions for using emerging mmWave technologies in future generation wireless networks are discussed.

Conclusion

Current research outlines the latest threshold levels for RF EMFs at mmWave bands, while pointing out the exclusion of certain scenarios like interference with electrical equipment and impacts on subjects with metallic medical implants. The future directions proposed focus on establishing guidelines for THz frequency bands and incorporating EMC influences.

The escalation in Electronic Hypersensitivity (EHS) disorders associated with prolonged smartphone use highlights an urgent need for further investigation into the relationship between mmWave device usage and EHS symptoms in humans.