Abstract

Overview

The coverage of the fifth-generation network has been expanding since its launch in 2019. Despite this, concerns about the potential health risks from electromagnetic (EM) waves emitted by 5G network base stations have led to public protests worldwide.

Findings

• A cross-sectional study was conducted assessing Korean adults' risk perceptions of EM wave-related objects.
• Factors such as gender, perceived exposure level, public policy effectiveness, and objective knowledge about EM waves were linked to increased risk perception.
• Attributes labeled as "personal knowledge," "seriousness to future generations," "dreadfulness," and "severity of consequences" were significantly associated with heightened risk perception.

Conclusion

This study highlights significant associations between various factors and the risk perception related to EM waves from 5G network stations, urging effective public health communications and policies to address these concerns.