RF-EMF exposure assessment with add-on uplink exposure sensor in different microenvironments in seven European countries

Authors: Bladel HV, Stroobandt B, Veludo AF, Deprez K, R��sli M, Tognola G, Parazzini M, Thur�czy G, Polanska K, Politanski P, Wiart J, Guxens M, Joseph W

Year: 2025

Category: Exposure Assessment

Journal: Environment International

DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109368

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412025001199

Abstract

Overview

This study introduces a new, cost-efficient, and low-complexity sensor for measuring radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure, designed to address the limitations of current bulky and expensive devices for monitoring personal exposure from emerging 5G New Radio (NR) technology. The sensor enables measurement of RF-EMF exposure in diverse data transmission scenarios in various microenvironments.

Methods

  • Activity-based microenvironmental surveys were performed in seven European countries: Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
  • The device, attached to a smartphone, quantifies auto-induced uplink (a-UL) transmission within the 100 MHz to 6000 MHz broadband frequency range.
  • Three scenarios were evaluated: non-user (environmental exposure), maximum downlink, and maximum uplink, in cities and rural villages across the countries.

Findings

  • Lowest power levels were observed in non-user scenarios (median: -2.64 dBm or 0.54 mW).
  • Maximum downlink and maximum uplink scenarios showed increases of 5.00 dB and 14.15 dB, respectively, relative to non-user scenarios.
  • Highest median a-UL power in uplink: 18.68 dBm (73.79 mW) in The Netherlands; lowest: 4.77 dBm (3 mW) in the UK.
  • Median power in cities was 2.72 dB lower than in villages.
  • Outdoor areas had the lowest a-UL median power (12.35 dBm), with power increasing 1.78 dB and 1.91 dB in public transport and public places, respectively.

Conclusion

The study provides detailed comparisons of RF-EMF power levels by country, urbanization, and usage scenario, relevant for future epidemiological investigations into EMF health impacts. The new add-on sensor mapped exposure differences and highlighted general trends, such as higher exposures during active device use and notable disparities between locations and usage contexts.

Future Directions

  • Comparisons with other measurement devices and phone apps (e.g., QualiPoc, ExpoM - RF4) are planned for validation.
  • Incorporation of GPS data aims to analyze correlations with base station proximity and explore temporal trends as 5G deployment progresses.
  • This information strengthens the basis for evaluating possible health risks associated with varying EMF exposures.
RF-EMF exposure assessment 5G uplink sensor microenvironments Europe
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