Conflicts of Interest and Misleading Statements in Official Reports about the Health Consequences of Radiofrequency Radiation and Some New Measurements of Exposure Levels

Abstract

Overview

Official reports often minimize public concerns about the pervasive presence of microwaves, also known as radiofrequency radiation (RF), from "smart" technologies by reiterating that the primary biological effect of RF is merely acute tissue heating. Such reports suggest that the radiation levels encountered by the public are substantially lower than those necessary for acute tissue heating.

Findings

• The paper traces the origins of this "thermal-only" perspective to military concerns in the 1950s.
• It highlights the role of financial conflicts of interest and deliberate misleading statements in maintaining this stance, despite strong evidence to the contrary, citing a specific 2018 report to New Zealand government ministers.
• Preliminary measurements of ambient RF power densities in Auckland are compared with data from other cities, various international exposure limits, and levels proven to cause biological harm.

Conclusion

The study challenges the validity of the ICNIRP's "thermal-only" exposure limits, drawing parallels to the misleading tactics used by the tobacco industry. It calls for a reassessment of safety standards that currently disregard non-thermal biological effects of RF radiation. Moreover, it urges politicians to prioritize the health and safety implications of RF exposure over industry assurances, referencing the unchecked growth of "Big Wireless" and cautioning against additional exposure from upcoming 5G expansions.