Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on quantifying personal exposure to RF electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) among adults in Australia. Confirmation of the importance of measuring such exposures for epidemiological research is underscored.

Methodology

• Use of personal exposimeters to track RF-EMF across various frequency bands.
• Data was collected from 63 participants who recorded exposure levels over approximately 27.4 hours.
• Analysis of exposure from distinctive sources like mobile phone base stations (downlink), handsets (uplink), broadcast mediums, and Wi-Fi.

Findings

• Average participant age was 36.9 years, with a predominance of women (66.7%).
• Most participants resided in urban areas with prevalent Wi-Fi and smart TV usage.
• The median RF-EMF exposure level was recorded at 208 mV/m.
• Statistical analysis showed that downlink and broadcast sources were main contributors to overall RF-EMF exposure.
• Exposure levels varied by day of the week and time, being higher on weekdays.

Conclusion

As electromagnetic fields from everyday technology sources continue to be a crucial health-related concern, studies such as these are vital for understanding regular personal exposure levels. Increased exposure from certain RF sources emphasizes the need for informed public policy and individual safeguards.