Abstract

Overview

Cell phones are known to expose significant portions of the human brain and head to extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields (MF), classified as a potential carcinogen (category 2B) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This study investigates the emission levels of ELF MF from cell phones under various usage modes.

Findings

• Measurement of ELF magnetic fields was done on the front and back sides of 15 cell phones across standby, speaking, and listening modes, following 2G and 3G standards.
• Highest measured values were 70.03 µT (RMS) in LF1 band under 2G listening mode and 12.67 µT (RMS) in LF2 band under 2G speaking mode.
• 3G cell phones demonstrated consistently lower ELF MF emissions compared to 2G models.
• Simulations of ELF MF exposure using CST Studio Suite presented potential exposures at different parts of the body, indicating significant values at the head, thorax, and pelvis.

Conclusion

The measured and simulated values highlight a notable exposure to ELF magnetic fields, which are comparable to levels known to induce biological and potential health risks, including carcinogenesis. These findings underscore the importance of considering these exposures in future research on the health impacts of electromagnetic fields.