Abstract

Overview

In urban environments, an increasing public exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from mobile phone base stations raises significant concerns. This study focuses specifically on an area at Skeppsbron street in Stockholm, Sweden, a popular location with densely placed base station antennas.

Findings

• Extensive measurements using a radiofrequency broadband analyzer and a portable exposimeter were conducted.
• The highest spatial average of radiofrequency field recorded was 12.1 V m⁻¹ (388 mW m⁻2), with maximum readings reaching up to 31.6 V m⁻¹ (2648 mW m⁻2).
• Major contributors to exposure were identified as the 2600 and 2100 MHz bands associated with 4G and 3G mobile services.

Conclusion

The placement of mobile phone base station antennas at such low levels near busy pedestrian areas not only results in high exposure levels but also demonstrates a poor design of radiofrequency infrastructure. Effective remedial strategies are urgently needed to decrease the potential health risks associated with high ambient RF radiation.