Assessment of the potential threats to brain health posed by the radiation from 5G sub-6 GHz base stations in China using dosimetric methods

Authors: Lin J, Ding G, Liu X, Li J

Year: 2024 May

Category: Environmental Health, Electromagnetic Field Safety

Journal: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int

DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33172-6

URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-024-33172-6

Abstract

Overview

The deployment of 5G sub-6 GHz radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) is prevalent across China, raising public concern about the potential health risks to the brain compared to earlier generations (2G, 3G, 4G). This study empirically investigates these potential risks, focusing on EMF exposure from sub-6 GHz 5G base stations using advanced dosimetric methods and a 3D virtual human body model. The simulation assesses specific absorption rate (SAR) and internal electric field (IEF) across multiple communication bands under standardized exposure limits.

Findings

  • Exposure from the sub-6 GHz high-frequency band of 5G results in the lowest brain tissue dose values compared to 2G, 3G, and 4G bands.
  • Normalized evaluation demonstrates that brain tissue dose decreases as the frequency increases.
  • The research measured dose and health threat in line with international ICNIRP guidelines and national Chinese standards.
  • Findings indicate low risk of brain health effects from 5G sub-6 GHz when industry standards are applied.
  • The choice of standards and physical quantities can influence dose evaluation trends, but the results consistently show reduced risk at higher frequencies.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of electromagnetic field exposure by supplementing laboratory research and providing a comparative analysis across communication bands. Although the results support the safety of 5G sub-6 GHz for brain health, it highlights the importance of ongoing epidemiological studies to address limitations in real-world exposure assessment. Further integration with measured public exposure and broader organ effects is advised to fully elucidate the potential impacts on human health.

⚠️ It is vital to recognize that electromagnetic field exposure is directly linked to health outcomes, necessitating cautious assessment and continual research, especially with new communication technologies.

5G electromagnetic fields brain health SAR sub-6 GHz dosimetry China
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