Abstract

Overview

In the late-1990s, the FCC and ICNIRP adopted radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exposure limits to protect the public and workers from adverse effects of RFR. These limits were based on results from behavioral studies conducted in the 1980s involving limited animal models and applying arbitrary safety factors.

Findings

• Twenty-five years of research invalidate the initial assumptions used by the FCC and ICNIRP for establishing exposure limits.
• Documented adverse effects from RFR include non-thermal effects such as DNA damage, carcinogenicity, and neurological impacts.
• Recent human studies link RFR exposure to increased risks of brain and thyroid cancers.
• Despite new evidence, in 2020, FCC and ICNIRP reaffirmed the outdated exposure limits.

Conclusion

Current standards based on old, erroneous assumptions urgently need revision. New, scientifically-backed exposure limits are needed to protect all populations from the expanding scope of RFR, particularly from emerging 5G technologies.