RF-EMF Risk Perception & Trust in Radiation Protection Authorities: Comparative Study on Precautionary Information in Germany & Greece

Authors: Eggeling-Böcker M, Karabetsos E, Christopoulou M, Link SC, Abacioglu F, Boehmert C

Year: 2026 Jan

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.70042

URL: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bem.70042

Abstract

Overview

This study examines the influence of different types of precautionary information on public risk perception and trust in national radiation protection authorities regarding radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), with a particular emphasis on 5G network exposure. Conducted with 2,169 participants (1,040 in Germany and 1,129 in Greece), the research utilized a randomized experimental design, assigning individuals to one of these three groups:

  • Basic information about RF-EMF
  • Simple precautionary details on reducing personal RF-EMF exposure during mobile phone use
  • Conceptual precautionary information, explaining the distinction between "precaution" and "prevention"

Findings

  • Simple precautionary messages generally did not heighten risk perception or diminish trust in authorities except for general risk perception when no precautions are assumed.
  • An in-depth conceptual explanation of the precaution/prevention distinction did not reduce risk perception; in fact, it increased perceived risk compared to just offering simple information.
  • Precautionary messages improved feelings of self-efficacy and the perception of message consistency.
  • Notable differences were observed across countries and genders: Greek participants reported higher perceived risks and lower trust than German participants; women reported higher risk perception and less trust than men.
  • Contrary to earlier literature, precautionary information about personal mobile phone use did not cause heightened public concern about RF-EMF exposure. However, explaining the conceptual distinction between precaution and prevention slightly increased risk perception.

Conclusion

The results suggest that while providing precautionary information can enhance individuals' sense of control regarding RF-EMF exposure, additional conceptual explanations may inadvertently heighten risk perception. The study underscores the importance of considering sociocultural and individual differences in risk communication strategies about electromagnetic field safety.

Key Points:

  • RF-EMF exposure evokes varying risk perceptions and trust in authorities depending on the content and framing of communication.
  • There is a measurable link between information detail and public concern, especially regarding conceptual precautionary communication, which can increase perceived health risks from EMF.
RF-EMF risk perception trust precautionary information mobile communication 5G cross-country comparison
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