Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

Car-mounted measurements were conducted to assess radiofrequency electromagnetic exposure levels across a broad area surrounding Tokyo. The implications of using a car for the measurements were initially analyzed in an anechoic chamber.

Findings

• The data collection spanned from May 2021 to February 2022 covering a 100 km radius centered at Nihonbashi, Tokyo, totaling a measurement distance of approximately 13,800 km.
• Measurements revealed that E-field strengths in FM/TV frequency bands were generally lower compared to those from mobile phone base stations.
• Distinctly, the E-field strength in the 5G frequency band was detected to be 20–30 dB lower than the levels from all mobile phone systems combined, with a caveat of potential dependence on 5G data traffic.
• E-field intensities were found to be notably higher in Tokyo as compared to other prefectures.
• Further, repeated measurements assured the reproducibility of the E-field data, with the standard deviation remaining under 3 dB on similar routes.
• Finally, a pronounced correlation was established between E-field strength from mobile phone base stations and population density.

Conclusion

The investigation underscores a significant link between RF EMF levels and mobile phone base stations with implications for public health risk, particularly in densely populated areas. Further scrutiny on the electromagnetic field exposure, especially from emerging technologies like 5G, is crucial.