Rapid Deployment of 5G Wireless Communication and Risk Assessment on Human Health: Quid Novi?

Abstract

Category: Environmental Health, Electromagnetic Safety Tags: 5G, electromagnetic fields, health risk, risk assessment, wireless communication, public health, millimeter waves DOI: 10.1002/bem.70005 URL: onlinelibrary.wiley.com Overview The rapid deployment of 5G wireless communication has sparked considerable debate and concern regarding its potential impacts on human health. As adoption accelerates, users are increasingly exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), particularly in the higher frequency bands such as 3.5–26 GHz, including millimeter waves. Key Points - There is notable public concern and scientific uncertainty surrounding the health effects of frequencies deployed by 5G, due to limited published studies specific to these exposure ranges. - The European Union Commission has recognized these knowledge gaps, initiating funding and collaborative networks (e.g., HORIZON-HL-TH-2021-ENVHLTH-02) to address the health risks associated with 5G exposure. - Four major research consortia—ETAIN, GOLIAT, NextGEM, and SEAWave—are working together under the CLUE-H network with global collaboration to close research gaps impacting public health and environmental safety. Conclusion The rapid implementation of 5G offers significant technological advancement but requires comprehensive and ongoing risk assessment regarding its health effects. While existing guidelines are generally considered adequate at present, the novelty and evolving nature of 5G technology introduces uncertainties—especially around long-term exposure. Continued research, transparent communication, and adaptable regulation are essential. There is a clear scientific recognition that balancing the evident benefits of 5G with precautionary steps is critical to safeguarding public health. Importantly, there is a recognized link between EMF exposure from 5G networks and potential health risks, warranting further investigation and precautionary approaches.

AI evidence extraction

Main findings

The article describes public concern and scientific uncertainty about potential human health effects from 5G-related EMF exposures, particularly in higher frequency bands (3.5–26 GHz, including millimeter waves), noting limited published studies specific to these ranges. It states that existing guidelines are generally considered adequate at present, while emphasizing uncertainties (especially regarding long-term exposure) and the need for continued research and ongoing risk assessment.

Outcomes measured

• human health risk (general)
• public health risk assessment (general)

Limitations

• Limited published studies specific to 5G exposure ranges are noted in the text.
• Uncertainties are highlighted, especially around long-term exposure.

Suggested hubs

• 5g-policy (0.9)
  Focuses on rapid 5G deployment, risk assessment needs, and precautionary/adaptable regulation.
• who-icnirp (0.55)
  Discusses adequacy of existing guidelines and regulatory considerations, though specific organizations are not named in the abstract.

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    "main_findings": "The article describes public concern and scientific uncertainty about potential human health effects from 5G-related EMF exposures, particularly in higher frequency bands (3.5–26 GHz, including millimeter waves), noting limited published studies specific to these ranges. It states that existing guidelines are generally considered adequate at present, while emphasizing uncertainties (especially regarding long-term exposure) and the need for continued research and ongoing risk assessment.",
    "effect_direction": "unclear",
    "limitations": [
        "Limited published studies specific to 5G exposure ranges are noted in the text.",
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