Radiofrequency Exposure Levels from Mobile Phone Base Stations in Outdoor Environments and an Underground Shopping Mall in Japan

Authors: Teruo Onishi, Miwa Ikuyo, Kazuhiro Tobita, Sen Liu, Masao Taki, Soichi Watanabe

Year: 2021

Category: Environmental Health

Journal: Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158068

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/15/8068

Abstract

Overview

Recent advances in wireless technology have increased human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), leading to public concerns about potential health risks. The study aims to monitor and characterize EMF exposure to improve risk communication.

Findings

The study, which gathered EMF exposure monitoring data in Japan, measured the electric field (E-field) strength from mobile phone base stations in urban, suburban, and underground shopping mall environments during 2019 and 2020, comparing them to data from 2006 and 2007. Key findings include:

  • E-field strengths were higher in 2019 and 2020, especially in the underground shopping mall.
  • The maximum ratio of E-field strengths in the urban areas and the mall were about 10 times higher than those in the suburban areas, but still below the Japanese radio wave protection guidelines by −20 dB.
  • Median E-field strength ratios were approximately −40 dB below the guideline limits.

Conclusion

Despite the increase in E-field strengths over time, levels remained within safe exposure limits as per Japanese guidelines. Ongoing research will expand to include 5G frequencies and provide more comprehensive data across various daily life conditions.

EMF exposure radiofrequency mobile phone base stations health risks E-field strength Japan occupational health
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