Abstract

Overview

Electromagnetic radiowave exposure is increasingly a major concern globally due to potential adverse health effects. This study presents a decade-long analysis, from 2006 to 2015, of electromagnetic field (EMF) levels in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, focusing on the impact of technological advances like digital television, mobile technologies, and wireless networks.

Findings

• The evolution of EMF exposure in Alcalá de Henares over a 10-year period was analyzed using measurements with a broadband isotropic probe covering 100 kHz to 3 GHz.
• A detailed statistical and spatial analysis shows changes in EMF levels across different parts of the city.
• Measured values ranged from 0.02 to 2.05 V/m, with a moderate overall increase noted from 2006 to 2010, stabilizing thereafter from 2010 to 2015.
• Significant differences in EMF levels were noted in regions based on urban and industrial development, directly correlating to new technological deployments and increased demand for radio electric resources.

Conclusion

This comprehensive survey over a 35 km2 area with 78 measurement points offers critical insights into the long-term trends of radio frequency electric field values. The results underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of EMF exposures, particularly in light of rapid technological advancements and urbanization. The findings are pivotal in understanding the broader implications of EMF on public health, showing negligible chances of extremely high exposure yet affirming an overall increase over the studied period.