Assessing EMF Exposure in Greek Urban and Suburban Areas During 5G Deployment: A Focus on 5G EMF Levels and Distance Correlation

Authors: Manassas A, Christopoulou M, Papanikolaou N, Delidimitriou S, Karabetsos E, Samaras T

Year: 2025

Category: Exposure Assessment, Electromagnetic Field Safety

Journal: Electronics

DOI: 10.3390/electronics14081554

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9292/14/8/1554

Abstract

Overview

This study presents an extensive analysis of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in Greek urban and suburban areas during the ongoing deployment of 5G technology. Researchers conducted a total of 400 in situ measurements of electric field strength at ground level across four distinct regions.

Key Elements Explored:

  • Statistical analysis of overall EMF exposure
  • Differentiation of contributions from various cellular generations (2G-5G)
  • Impact investigation of 5G deployment
  • Correlation between EMF levels (in the 3.5 GHz band) and distance from 5G base stations

Findings

  • 4G networks are the dominant contributors to overall EMF exposure, while 5G's impact is currently limited.
  • A general inverse correlation was found between EMF levels and distance from base stations, subject to variations due to environmental and line-of-sight factors.
  • Urban areas exhibited higher electric field levels compared to suburban areas, likely due to higher population density and more base stations.

Conclusion

Distance from base station antennas remains a crucial predictive factor for AI-based EMF exposure models, including for 5G networks. The study highlights how electric field levels are significantly affected by the proximity to cellular base stations, emphasizing the importance of considering this factor in both public health assessments and regulatory frameworks. Although 5G's overall contribution to EMF exposure is currently minor, the correlation with distance is clear and should not be underestimated when considering health risk assessments related to electromagnetic fields.

EMF 5G exposure urban suburban electric field base station distance
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