Published April 11, 2026 | Article by EMFSA

5G/6G 28 GHz EMF Exposure Levels – Some people worry that newer networks (especially 5G/6G) might affect health. Therefore, the researchers sought a realistic, everyday assessment. The objective of the study was to investigate hotspot effects from MaMIMO base stations on RF-EMF exposure. The authors compared instantaneous exposure metrics with 30-minute ICNIRP limits as a conservative worst-case scenario, referring to these as “exposure limits.”

This work comprehensively studies hotspots in realistic environments at 28 GHz.

Simulated a person walking in cities (like Helsinki and New York).

Used detailed 3D maps (buildings, trees, streets).

Modeled how signals travel and interact with the human body.

Key findings

• Case studies in Helsinki and NYC show the reference and basic exposure metrics along a realistic path, remaining within at most 1% of the ICNIRP guidelines limit for 30-min averaging intervals. 
• Using your phone increases exposure compared to not using it (because signals focus on your device).
• Distributed (cell-free) MaMIMO systems spread signals more evenly, avoiding strong peaks.
• Small “hotspots” of higher signal can occur, but they are tiny and short-lived.

In short, according to the authors: 

In normal real-world situations, even with advanced 5G/6G systems, exposure to radio waves stays far below safety limits and is not unusually high.

As per the authors, the study introduces several novel contributions:

• A first-of-its-kind end-to-end method for assessing mmWave exposure, combining ray-tracing, QuaDRiGa, and FDTD simulations.
• The use of high-accuracy photogrammetry and semantic classification to model realistic exposure along real-world paths.
• A comparison of collocated and cell-free massive MIMO systems under both user and non-user scenarios at 28 GHz.
• A detailed analysis of realistic exposure “hotspots” and their impact on key metrics such as incident (Sinc) and absorbed (Sab) power density.

What are the limitations of the study?

• Very high computational cost
• Incomplete real-world data (materials & antennas)
• Partly statistical (not fully exact)
• Limited validation with real measurements
• Specific scenarios only

Bottom line:

The study is advanced and realistic, but still depends on simulations, assumptions, and limited real-world data.

5G/6G 28 GHz EMF Exposure Levels – Advantages of the study

Realistic global modelling – Can simulate EMF exposure almost anywhere using detailed 3D environments.

End-to-end “digital twin” – Models the full process: from signal transmission (Tx power) to what the human body absorbs.

Practical usefulness

-Helps policy-makers understand real exposure levels.

-Helps network planners design safer, more efficient systems. –

Advanced accuracy – Combines multiple techniques to better reflect real-world signal behavior.

5G/6G 28 GHz EMF Exposure Levels – Future recommendations by the authors

1. Expand testing environments – Apply the method across urban, rural, indoor, and controlled lab settings.
2. Validate with real-world measurements – Use wearable dosimeters and city-scale experiments.
3. Scale to future 6G systems – Investigate exposure in ultra-massive MIMO networks.
4. Improve model realism – Incorporate real device and antenna data.
5. Collaborate with industry – Access proprietary antenna designs and configurations.

Source and licensing

This article is based on: Wydaeghe et al. (2026). Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0). http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Further reading: Numerical Analysis of Electromagnetic Field Exposure from 5G Mobile Communications at 28 GHZ in Adults and Children Users for Real-World Exposure Scenarios https://www.emfsa.co.za/research-and-studies/numerical-analysis-of-electromagnetic-field-exposure-from-5g-mobile-communications-at-28-ghz-in-adults-and-children-users-for-real-world-exposure-scenarios/

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Illustration of a 60 GHz electromagnetic wave interacting with an oxygen (O2) molecule, demonstrating microwave absorption characteristics relevant to atmospheric physics and communication technologies.

Image: Created by EMFSA using free vector elements from https://pixabay.com/

Minor note: The absorption at 60 GHz is particularly strong due to molecular resonance. This property makes the band ideal for engineered short-range links but unsuitable for long-haul communication, which is why it’s mainly used in dense urban areas or to connect specific points rather than for broad coverage.

Real-World Applications of 60 GHz (V-Band) Technology:

60 GHz signals are already used in homes, offices, and public spaces worldwide. Beyond ultra-fast Wi-Fi, this frequency band is actively used for high-capacity, short-range wireless communication.

Examples of 60 GHz Use

• Ultra-fast WiGig Wi-Fi for wireless docking and VR systems
• Indoor and campus wireless links for offices, universities, and data centers
• Point-to-point (PTP) connections for building-to-building links

60 GHz Technology in South Africa

In South Africa, 60 GHz technology is widely used as a faster, cost-effective alternative to laying fibre optic cables. Internet service providers, businesses, and public infrastructure projects deploy it mainly in dense urban areas or to connect remote locations where fibre installation is challenging.

Key applications include:

• High-Capacity Point-to-Point (PTP) Links: Connecting buildings, typically up to about 1.5 km
• Small Cell Backhaul: Linking mobile network infrastructure in cities
• ISP Last-Mile Connectivity (Fixed Wireless Access) that delivers high-speed internet where fibre is not available
• Campus Networks: High-speed connections across schools, business parks, and retail centres
• Security and Video Surveillance: Supporting high-capacity video transmission

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) allows the use of this band (typically 57–66 GHz), aligning with international standards. One advantage of 60 GHz is that it allows many links to operate in a small area with minimal interference.

Satellite Megaconstellations and 60 GHz

Satellite megaconstellations such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Amazon Kuiper do not use 60 GHz for consumer connections. These systems operate primarily in lower frequency bands, such as the Ku and Ka bands, which can travel long distances from space to Earth.

The 60 GHz band is only practical for short-range, ground-based links. This means the oxygen absorption discussed here applies only to local wireless systems—not satellites—and does not affect the air we breathe.

Why Oxygen Absorbs 60 GHz Signals

At around 60 GHz, oxygen molecules have a natural resonance that makes them more likely to take in energy from radio waves. Importantly, this is a normal and harmless physical process.

What actually happens?

• Energy absorption is temporary – oxygen molecules take in a tiny amount of energy and release it as heat
• No chemical change occurs – the oxygen molecules remain the same
• Signals weaken over distance – this is why 60 GHz is used for short-range communication
• Engineers use this effect – it helps reduce interference and improves performance in dense areas

Looking Ahead: Higher Frequencies and Future Networks

Scientific research shows that interactions between radio waves and living organisms are frequency-dependent. For example, a recent study on fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) exposed to radio-frequency fields found no effects on behaviour or reproduction, even at levels higher than typically encountered in real environments.

Modelling from the same research suggests that much higher frequencies (around 90 GHz)—which may be used in future technologies—could result in greater energy absorption in very small organisms like insects.

However, this refers to tiny, localized effects and does not imply any risk to humans or oxygen in the air.

Citation:
De Boose, P., Ribas, F. O., Bell, D., Bouga, M., De Borre, E., Fröhlich, J., et al. (2025). Behaviour and reproduction of Drosophila melanogaster exposed to 3.6 GHz radio-frequency electromagnetic fields.PLOS ONE, 20(12), e0336228.

Closing Thoughts: Can 60 GHz Signals for 5G Steal Oxygen from the Air?

The idea that 60 GHz signals for 5G could “steal” oxygen comes from a misunderstanding of how radio waves interact with the atmosphere. While 60 GHz is absorbed by oxygen at a higher rate than other radio frequencies, this is a well-known and harmless effect that only reduces signal strength over distance. The energy deposited in the air is minimal and does not affect oxygen availability or human breathing. Engineers even take advantage of oxygen’s absorption characteristics to design efficient, high-speed, short-range wireless systems, while long-distance communication continues to rely on lower-frequency bands that propagate further without excessive attenuation.

Further reading (2021):

Does Amazon’s Sleep Tracking Technology Invade Bedroom Privacy? Concerns Raised About Data Sharing, Opacity of Intentions for Collected Information https://www.emfsa.co.za/news/does-amazons-sleep-tracking-technology-invade-bedroom-privacy-concerns-raised-about-data-sharing-opacity-of-intentions-for-collected-information/

References

• MCToon.net. (n.d.). 60 GHz does get absorbed by oxygen at a much higher rate than other frequencies of radio waves. Retrieved March 22, 2026, from https://mctoon.net/60ghz/
• ICO Optics. (n.d.). Atmospheric layers and their effect on radio propagation.Retrieved March 22, 2026, from https://www.ico-optics.org/atmospheric-layers-and-their-effect-on-radio-propagation/
• De Boose, P., Ribas, F. O., Bell, D., Bouga, M., De Borre, E., Fröhlich, J., et al. (2025). Behaviour and reproduction of Drosophila melanogasterexposed to 3.6 GHz radio-frequency electromagnetic fields. PLOS ONE, 20(12), e0336228. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0336228
• Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA). (n.d.). Radio spectrum standards and regulations.Retrieved March 22, 2026, from https://www.icasa.org.za
• IEEE. (2012). IEEE Standard 802.11ad-2012. https://standards.ieee.org/standard/802_11ad-2012.html
• IEEE. (2021). IEEE Standard 802.11ay-2021. https://standards.ieee.org/standard/802_11ay-2021.html

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Cell Tower Radiation and Phone Usage aren’t constant—they change depending on how many phones are actively connected to the network. When fewer devices are in use, the tower transmits less, so radiation levels are lower. During periods of heavy phone activity—such as evening streaming in busy neighborhoods or commuting hours—towers increase their signal to keep everyone connected, which naturally raises emissions.

Cell Tower Radiation and Phone Usage in Modern Towers

Modern 4G LTE, LTE-Advanced, and 5G towers are designed to operate efficiently by adjusting signal transmission based on network demand. Several key technologies make this possible:

• Beamforming: Sends signals in specific directions toward active devices instead of broadcasting equally in all directions.
• Massive MIMO: Uses multiple antenna elements that can be managed to support active users more efficiently.
• Dynamic Power Control: Adjusts the tower’s output based on how many devices are connected and the signal conditions.
• Discontinuous Transmission (DTX) and Sleep Modes: Allows parts of the system to reduce or pause transmission when there is little or no data to send.

Massive MIMO and beamforming play an especially important role in modern networks. Massive MIMO uses many antenna elements to serve multiple users at the same time while managing power efficiently. Beamforming focuses signals toward specific active devices rather than broadcasting energy in all directions. This targeted approach helps maintain strong, reliable connections and ensures that the tower transmits only what is needed to reach active users.

Older towers may not have all of these features and may transmit at more constant power levels. Most modern cellular networks, however, are designed to adjust their operation depending on usage to maintain reliable service.

Why It Matters

Radiation levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day and vary by location. Towers in densely populated areas or during peak usage periods generally have higher emissions, while rural or low-traffic areas typically see lower transmission levels. Understanding this helps explain why exposure is not fixed but changes depending on network activity.

Further reading

References

Massive MIMO Systems for 5G and Beyond Networks—Overview, Recent Trends, Challenges, and Future Research Direction https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7284607/

What Is 5G Wireless Technology? https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/what-is-5g

What Is Beamforming? https://ww2.mathworks.cn/discovery/beamforming.html

Make the Most of Massive MIMO https://www.ericsson.com/en/ran/massive-mimo

Dynamic Power Control https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/dynamic-power-control

Optimal Operation of Base Stations With Deep Sleep and Discontinuous Transmission https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8458429

*Image adapted from photo by Michael Jiang on Unsplash 

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5G Frequency Range 2 (FR2), commonly known as millimeter-wave (mmWave), operates within the 24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz spectrum range. While mmWave has been used for decades in applications requiring high frequency and bandwidth, its integration into 5G networks represents a new phase in mobile communication.

Historically, mmWave technology has been applied in radar systems (including automotive and aerospace radar), satellite communication, point-to-point communication links, security imaging scanners, and industrial sensing and measurement equipment. In these applications, public exposure was typically incidental and minimal, with workers protected by occupational safety regulations.

Current Use of 5G FR2

Key Applications of 5G FR2

Today, 5G FR2 is not only used for point-to-point links but is also deployed for several key applications, including:

• Backhaul and fronthaul communication
• Hotspot 5G access
• Fixed wireless access

Human Exposure Context

With 5G FR2, however, exposure can occur both in public and private spaces, including within homes, especially when devices like mmWave-enabled smartphones are used. This is due to both 5G FR2-enabled base stations and user devices contributing to exposure in everyday environments.

Public exposure to FR2 is currently limited but is expected to rise as FR2 networks expand. In many countries, mmWave is still in trial or early deployment stages, with broad consumer coverage yet to come. However, commercial 5G cellular networks that include FR2 are already operational in the following countries:

• United States
• Japan

Other countries that have early deployment activity or have allocated mmWave spectrum (with some limited commercial use) include:

• Germany
• Italy
• Finland
• Spain
• Australia
• Taiwan
• Hong Kong
• Singapore

Further Research Needs in Relation to FR2

According to the German Radiation Protection Commission (SSK), scientific understanding of the biological and health effects of 5G millimeter-wave frequencies (FR2), especially those above 24 GHz, is still limited. This is mainly because these waves are absorbed primarily at the surface of the body, which makes it harder to assess their effects on deeper tissues.

The Commission emphasizes the need for more research on FR2 frequencies used in telecommunications and advocates for methodologically rigorous studies to better assess potential health risks. Importantly, they do not call for halting the 5G rollout, but instead encourage ongoing monitoring and continued research.

Key Areas of Focus for Future Research:

• Effects on the skin and eyes, as these are the most exposed parts of the body.
• Biological processes mediated through the skin, particularly effects on the nervous system and immune responses.
• Long-term effects, both in humans and animal models, to understand chronic exposure risks.
• Thermal and non-thermal effects, with particular interest in potential non-thermal mechanisms that could affect health.

Several ongoing European research projects aim to address these gaps, and their findings will be critical for guiding future policy and health recommendations in regions like Germany, where FR2 frequencies are being actively considered for broader use. Citation: Radiation Protection Commission, “Electromagnetic fields from mobile communications in the context of the current 5G network rollout: Technical aspects and biological effects in the upper frequency range (FR2, above approx. 24 GHz)”, Statement of the Radiation Protection Commission, January 21, 2026. Link to the statement | Link to the full report (PDF).

Continued research into FR2 frequencies is crucial to ensure public health safety and inform policy decisions on 5G deployment.

Germany’s FR2 Statement

Germany is not calling for a halt to the deployment of 5G FR2 frequencies (the higher millimeter-wave bands, above 24 GHz). Instead, Germany’s Radiation Protection Commission (SSK) is emphasizing continued monitoring and further research into potential health effects rather than suspending the rollout. While Germany has not opposed the use of FR2 frequencies, it has clearly identified gaps in the current scientific evidence and is urging additional studies to ensure that public health remains adequately protected.

The Complexities of EMF Research and Safety Guidelines

Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) state that millimeter waves, including those used in 5G FR2, are unlikely to cause harm when exposure remains within established safety limits. These guidelines focus primarily on thermal effects (tissue heating), which are well-understood and supported by extensive evidence. At the same time, WHO and ICNIRP acknowledge that research gaps remain, particularly at higher frequencies such as those used in FR2.

While major health organizations continue to uphold the adequacy of current safety standards, some independent scientific reviews argue that these guidelines primarily focus on thermal effects, potentially overlooking long-term or non-thermal mechanisms. However, not all accept these critiques, and they remain part of ongoing scientific debate. Despite this, the prevailing consensus among health organizations is that current exposure limits are sufficient to protect against established adverse health effects.

Further Reading

Maritime 5G and Marine Ecosystems https://www.emfsa.co.za/news/maritime-5g-and-marine-ecosystems/

References

A Look at the Current Status of 5G and Millimeter Waves at Home and Abroad [Part 1] — Frequency Allocation and Commercial Service Launch https://www.telegraphic.jp/en/2023/12/19/

5G Frequency Bands & Spectrum Allocations

How expert bodies assess mobile communications https://www.telekom.com/en/corporate-responsibility/environment/details/how-expert-bodies-assess-mobile-communications-361642

Fact Sheet: GSMA 5G mmWave https://www.gsma.com/get-involved/gsma-foundry/gsma_resources/gsma-5g-mmwave-fact-sheet/

Author’s note
This article was conceived and written by the author. AI-based tools were used to assist with language refinement, formatting, and clarity.

Image adapted from a photo by gryffyn m on Unsplash

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Electromagnetic Safety and Exposure Guidelines

We look at two recent studies on electromagnetic exposure: one highlights potential risks for people with conductive implants, showing that local field enhancements may exceed current safety limits, and another examines exposure from military vehicular antennas, finding that while reference levels are sometimes exceeded, basic safety restrictions are generally met.

For a detailed discussion and analysis of these findings, see the EMFSA September 2025 Newsletter.

Summaries are based on Open Access research under Creative Commons licenses.

Digital Planetary Health and Generative AI

We highlight a recent perspective article by Deborah Lupton (Health Promotion International, 26 September 2025) exploring the impacts of generative AI on human and planetary health. The article emphasizes how AI infrastructure contributes to e-waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource use, while also reviewing proposals for AI to aid climate, biodiversity, and pollution action. Actions at organizational and community levels are suggested to reduce harm. Read the full article at https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/daaf153 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0).

Biomedical Engineer’s Pledge: Ethics in Action

Explore how the Biomedical Engineer’s Pledge promotes patient safety, sustainability, and global health equity. According to Ivorra et al. (2025), it sets a standard for ethical responsibility in the profession. Read more at https://mailchi.mp/emfsa/emfsa-september-2025-newsletter

Only Shine the Light Where and When It Is Needed

Artificial light at night (ALAN) harms human health, wildlife, and wastes energy. In this newsletter, we concur with the authors who warn against waiting decades—as with tobacco exposure—before taking meaningful action to protect health and the environment.

Bacterial Adaptation to RF-EMF

Bacteria exposed to Wi-Fi and mobile phone signals may develop antibiotic resistance and other defensive traits, potentially affecting treatment effectiveness. Understanding these changes is important for public health.

Link to the EMFSA September 2025 Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/emfsa/emfsa-september-2025-newsletter

Read more Bacterial Resistance and Cell Phones https://www.emfsa.co.za/news/bacterial-resistance-cell-phones/

EMFSA logo – spotlighting our September 2025 Newsletter

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MTN’s half-year 2025 financial report confirms ongoing cooperation and promises updates on material developments. The 2024 annual report had disclosed U.S. Anti-Terrorism Act litigation but assessed liability as “remote” with no contingent liabilities.

Analysis by the Foreign Policy Research Institute highlights potential implications for multinational companies in geopolitically complex regions.

Aviation / 5G Interference

Researchers at KAUST (Saudi Arabia) developed a new mathematical approach to protect aircraft from 5G interference. The study defines an ideal exclusion zone around runways, balancing safety with network performance. This model is expected to guide aviation regulators and telecom authorities in 5G tower deployment near airports.

Space-Based Solar Power (SBSP)

Decades of research have explored wireless solar energy from orbit. Current designs convert sunlight via photovoltaic cells in geostationary orbit into microwaves, which are transmitted to rectennas on Earth and fed into the grid. Recent studies suggest SBSP could play a key role in Europe’s clean energy transition.

5G / 6G and Human Skin

New studies examine how millimeter waves interact with skin and cells. Modeling shows human skin cannot be treated as uniform when exposed to 5G/6G millimeter waves. Short-term exposure to 5G-modulated 3.5 GHz fields does not affect oxidative stress or DNA repair in human skin cells under controlled conditions. The findings are limited to acute exposures of up to 48 hours, and longer-term studies in more realistic biological models are needed.

WHO RF-EMF Systematic Reviews – Swiss FOEN & FOPH

High reliability was observed for carcinogenicity in animal studies, but results do not directly indicate human health effects. Detailed results will be presented in the WHO report scheduled for the end of 2025. Switzerland’s federal protection framework remains in place, guided by the Environmental Protection Act and the Ordinance on Protection against Non-Ionizing Radiation, with the precautionary principle central.

Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses for WHO RF-EMF Assessment

A special issue of Environment International presents the culmination of four years of collaborative work by over 80 global scientific experts. It includes nine protocols and twelve systematic reviews supporting human health risk assessment of RF-EMF exposure. The editorial summarizes methodology, commissioning processes, and key findings.

Environmental 60 Hz Magnetic Fields (MFs)

A new study analyzed electric fields induced by powerline frequency (60 Hz) magnetic fields in human legs. Results underline the importance of rigorous modeling to refine exposure systems, standards, and guidelines.

Radon

Switzerland maintains one of the most detailed national radon databases worldwide, with around 300,000 indoor measurements. Other countries have similar databases, though methodologies vary.

Recent measurements in Scotland revealed elevated radon levels in nine Highland Council properties, including two schools, underscoring the importance of regular testing. South Africa currently lacks a comprehensive national radon database.

AI

Parents of a teenager who took his own life have filed a lawsuit against OpenAI. The company has announced plans to modify ChatGPT following the case, which claimed the chatbot contributed to the teen’s suicide.

In Memoriam

We are deeply saddened by the passing of George Parker, an icon in the EHS community. His contributions and legacy will be long remembered.

Read the EMFSA August 2025 Newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/emfsa/august-2025-newsletter

Subscribe to our Free Monthly Newsletter https://www.emfsa.co.za/newsletter/

EMFSA August 2025 Newsletter: Logo of EMFSA, illustrating the focus on electromagnetic field safety and awareness, combining stylized RF waves with imagery of communication towers

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The EMFSA May 2025 Newsletter takes a closer look at a widely publicized study that claims 5G is safe. While the media presented reassuring headlines, our analysis reveals key limitations in the research that deserve careful attention. This issue also highlights how antibiotics in cell cultures may confound EMF study results—an important but often overlooked factor.

• Mobile Phone EMF and Brain Activity
A new scoping review outlines major research gaps, especially around 5G-related frequencies. The review urges more consistent research methods and better-quality studies to assess EMF’s influence on brain activity.

• RF-EMF Exposure in Europe
In this issue, the EMFSA May 2025 Newsletter also covers a large-scale study measuring EMF exposure in over 800 microenvironments across ten European countries. One takeaway: stricter national limits often lead to lower background EMF—but can result in higher uplink exposure from personal devices during data transfers.

• Electrohypersensitivity (EHS): Reasonable Accommodation
We include insights from a perspective article that mentions reasonable accommodation for people with EHS, an increasingly recognized issue in workplace and public health discussions.

• EHS Skin Cell Study Emphasizes Need for In Vivo Research
The newsletter covers a new cell study showing delayed ATM protein activity in skin fibroblasts from self-diagnosed EHS individuals. The authors stress that in vivo studies are needed to confirm whether these findings translate to real-life biological responses.

• Upcoming
Stay tuned for Dariusz Leszczynski’s upcoming paper on EHS, recently accepted by the mHealth Journal—previewed in this month’s newsletter.

• Are AI Companions Just a Game?
A timely ethical question: are AI companions harmless, or can they foster addiction and emotional dependency?

• Breast Cancer Infographic: Exposure to artificial light at night (ALAN), especially blue light, has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in genetically predisposed women.

• Is taurine in energy drinks a concern?

Read the full EMFSA May 2025 Newsletter: 5G Study Claims Safety

EMFSA April 2025 Newsletter – EMFSA

EMFSA (Electromagnetic Fields South Africa)

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A single swallow flying above abstract waves and digital signals, symbolizing caution in interpreting a single 5G research finding.

Illustration generated by AI using OpenAI’s DALL·E — conceptual design by EMFSA, 2025.

Framing the Narrative: discredit opposition without addressing substance

“This work is a thorough rebuttal to the myths, misconceptions, and conspiracies surrounding 5G networks.”

This kind of framing risks delegitimizing even well-founded or scientifically grounded concerns by categorizing them alongside fringe views.

Loaded Language & Certainty Overreach

Examples:

“Our results show with great clarity…”
“Absolutely nothing”
“We hope to close this debate…”

These statements go well beyond cautious scientific language. In high-quality research reporting, especially in fields with public health implications, phrases like “with great clarity” or “close this debate” are red flags. Science rarely “closes debates” based on one study—especially in complex, emerging fields.

Backward logic

“We devised a comprehensive experimental setup… to close this debate.”

This reflects circular reasoning: the null result is used to retroactively justify the method, rather than the method standing independently of the outcome.

Clarifying 5G Frequency Ranges
It is misleading to present findings from studies on millimeter waves (mmWave) as representative of all 5G frequencies. In reality, 5G includes a wide range of frequencies, each with different coverage and potential biological effects.

Most countries use mid-band 5G, particularly n78 (3.5 GHz), due to its balance of speed and range. Low-band (e.g., 700 MHz, n28) supports broad coverage, especially in rural areas, while mmWave bands like n260 and n261 offer high speeds but remain limited due to short range and infrastructure needs.

Regions such as China and South Korea also use bands like n79 (4.9 GHz) and n257 (26 GHz) to boost capacity. The C-Band (n77/n78) is becoming the global standard for its practicality.

In light of this, studies that only examine mmWave exposures—such as those at 26 or 40 GHz—cannot be taken as definitive evidence for the safety of all 5G technologies. Broader investigation across commonly used mid- and low-band frequencies is essential for a more complete understanding of potential health effects.

Study Relevance (According to the Authors)

• The rollout of 5G technology and the planned use of even higher frequencies have raised public concerns, particularly about potential cancer risks and genetic effects.
  
• Previous studies investigating health effects of radiofrequency radiation have been criticized for:
  
  • Lack of blinded conditions,
    
  • Inadequate temperature control,
    
  • Limited transparency in statistical analysis.
    
• This study aimed to address those criticisms through a rigorously controlled experimental setup.
  
• The researchers exposed two types of human skin cells (keratinocytes and fibroblasts) to high-frequency electromagnetic fields under worst-case exposure conditions.
  
• According to the authors, no significant changes were found in gene expression or DNA methylation patterns after exposure.
  
• They suggest these findings may help reduce public uncertainty about 5G by providing “well-founded facts.”
  
• The authors also propose that their statistical approach could be useful in other fields where demonstrating the absence of a biological effect is important.

An independent take on key nuances to be aware of

• The exposure duration was either 2 or 48 hours, which may not reflect real-life chronic, long-term exposure.
  
• Cell cultures in petri dishes are not equivalent to whole human biology—this model lacks the complexity of real tissues and systems.
  
• Only two cell types were used, both from the skin, even though 5G signals (including other than mmwaves) can penetrate deeper or affect neurological and immune systems indirectly.
  

It’s worth noting that the study used penicillin-streptomycin in the culture media. Emerging research shows that antibiotics in mammalian cell cultures—especially streptomycin—can affect gene expression and epigenetic regulation. This could introduce subtle confounders—particularly in transcriptomic analyses—where even minor gene expression shifts can be misinterpreted. For more on this topic: Antibiotic Use in Mammalian Cell Cultures – EMFSA

BERENIS on RF-EMF, ICNIRP Guidelines, and the Precautionary Principle

BERENIS, the Swiss expert group on electromagnetic fields and non-ionising radiation, notes that evidence on health effects from RF-EMF in the millimetre wave (MMW) range (>5.8 GHz) remains limited and uncertain. Some studies suggest possible effects on learning and cellular stress, but data quality is poor and human or ecological studies are lacking. BERENIS recommends applying the precautionary principle and supports stricter guidelines for exposures above 6 GHz until more robust research is available.

This is an excerpt. Read the full statement here:
BERENIS – Swiss Expert Group on Electromagnetic Fields, Newsletter, May 2025. https://www.bafu.admin.ch/bafu/en/home/topics/electrosmog/beratende-expertengruppe-nis-berenis/newsletter-of-the-swiss-expert-group-on-electromagnetic-fields-a.html

One study does not settle the science—just as one swallow does not make a summer. As 5G deployment continues, rigorous multi-frequency, long-term studies—free from media hype—remain essential for public trust and scientific integrity.

Independent analysts such as Einar Flydal and Microwave News have also questioned the framing and interpretation of the study’s findings.

• How to Bluff with Research: Alexander Lerchl Rides Again – Einar Flydal https://einarflydal.com/2025/05/24/hvordan-bloffe-med-forskning-alexander-lerchl-rir-igjen
  
• Alexander Lerchl – Microwave News archive https://microwavenews.com/news-tags/alexander-lerchl

References

• 5G Bands by Country: A Global Guide to Frequency Allocations [2025] – OneSDR
  https://onesdr.com/5g-bands-by-country-a-global-guide-to-frequency-allocations
• 5G wireless signals were extensively tested and the final verdict is out on their human impact – Earth.com
  https://www.earth.com/news/5g-wireless-signals-are-finally-proven-to-be-completely-safe
• Even if 5G penetrates a few millimetres into the skin, it is safe – Cosmos Magazine
  https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/internet/5g-safe-gene-expression
• Jyoti Jyoti, Isabel Gronau, Eda Cakir, Marc-Thorsten Hütt, Alexander Lerchl, Vivian Meyer.
  5G-exposed human skin cells do not respond with altered gene expression and methylation profiles.
  PNAS Nexus, Volume 4, Issue 5, May 2025, pgaf127.
  https://doi.org/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf127
• Most Rigorous Study Of Human Cells Exposed To 5G Strikes Blow At Common Conspiracy Theory – IFLScience
  https://www.iflscience.com/what-happened-when-scientists-exposed-human-cells-to-5g-absolutely-nothing-79247
• Scientists Blasted Human Cells With 5G to See What Would Happen – Gizmodo
  https://gizmodo.com/scientists-blasted-human-cells-with-5g-to-see-what-would-happen-20006025
• Study debunks 5G health conspiracy theory (again) – Popular Science
  https://www.popsci.com/health/5g-conspiracy-theory-debunk
• Take off your tinfoil hat: Exposure to 5G doesn’t alter your genes, new study finds – Android Authority
  https://www.androidauthority.com/5g-study-human-cells-3558167
• Stay calm & keep scrolling: New Constructor University study finds no evidence of cell damage from 5G (Constructor University press release)
  https://nachrichten.idw-online.de/2025/05/14/stay-calm-keep-scrolling-new-constructor-university-study-finds-no-evidence-of-cell-damage-from-5g?groupcolor=1
• Constructor University Facebook Reel – “It is safe to use 5G…”
  https://www.facebook.com/reel/1115881970554429
• Constructor University on Instagram –
  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJmCssECUPq/

The post 5G Research: One Swallow Does Not Make a Summer appeared first on EMFSA.

Image adapted from a Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Why Were the NTP Cell Phone Studies Halted?
What happened to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) research on cell phone radiation? Why has the NIH redacted so many records? Congressional oversight may provide answers.

Are We Properly Assessing Real-Time Risks of New Wireless Technologies?
With the rapid rollout of 5G, 6G, and beyond, are current RF safety studies keeping up? Discover why innovative research approaches are critical.

Satellites: A Multi-Layered EMF Exposure Scenario
From Earth to orbit—what does the expansion of satellite constellations mean for global EMF exposure? As we push toward 6G, what challenges and risks lie ahead?

Are Rural Cell Towers Under Threat?
With shifting policies and evolving technologies, what’s the future of rural connectivity?

Is the Global Race to Expand Mobile Bandwidth a Mistake?
As network expansion accelerates, is there a breaking point? A new study sheds light on how to optimize configurations while mitigating EMF exposure risks.

The Latest Version of the 5G Scientist App Is Here!
Find out what’s new in this innovative tool for tracking 5G developments.

Havana Syndrome: Senator Rubio Demands Transparency
The mystery surrounding Havana Syndrome continues—what’s the latest?

Fractal Wood Burning Hazards
Instead of following dangerous social media trends, let’s promote responsible practices that prioritize safety.

Hugh Grant Speaks Out on Kids and Screen Time
The Hollywood actor shares his frustrations about keeping his children away from digital devices.

Lessons from History: Project Seafarer & Covert Experiments
From secret military projects to unethical human research—what can we learn from the past to protect the future?

Read the full EMFSA February 2025 Newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/emfsa/february2025newsletter

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The EMFSA January 2025 Newsletter is out! This month, we explore key topics on AI, 5G, radiofrequency radiation (RFR) and scientific innovation, including:

• The Global AI Race: Promise & Challenges

The global AI race is heating up, bringing both promise and challenges. Concerns over power supply and sustainability are becoming more pressing.

•OpenAI’s Role in the Stargate Project
Given OpenAI’s central role in the Stargate Project, artificial intelligence remains at the core of this initiative, shaping the future of AI technology.

• 5G and Millimeter-Wave Frequencies

Is Millimeter-Wave the primary frequency for 5G? We explore the topic.

• RFR Exposure and Genetic Changes

The first study showing genetic changes in rat tumors from lifetime radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exposure is featured in the 2024 NIEHS Papers of the Year.

• Inspiring Young Minds in Science

Read about an inspiring project led by children, exploring science, problem-solving, and creating solutions for their well-being.  We encourage young minds to engage in discovery and innovation.

• Fire Hazards in Electrical Infrastructure

Malfunctioning electrical infrastructure can pose serious fire hazards, especially in renewable energy systems, energy storage, and power transmission https://www.emfsa.co.za/safety/fire-hazards-malfunctioning-electrical-infrastructure/

Photo by Andrey Metelev on Unsplash

• Are Smartwatch Wristbands Safe?

Do the wristbands of smartwatches and other fitness wearables contain “forever chemicals“? What are the potential health risks ?

• The Hidden Impact of Wind Turbines on Bats

Did you know that wind turbine blades can be deadly to bats? As the turbines sweep through the air at over 300 km/h, they create low-pressure vortices. Simply passing through these vortices can cause fatal lung hemorrhages in bats.

• Mobile Phone Bans in Schools

Almost 40% of countries now have a law or policy banning the use of mobile phones in schools

• RF-EMF Exposure and Pregnancy Outcomes

Corrigendum:

Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) Exposure on Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes
This systematic review examines experimental studies in non-human mammals.

Corrigendum Findings

According to the authors, there is no significant change in the quantitative outputs of the effect estimates. The interpretation and conclusions of the review remain unchanged

• French Court Ruling on Smart Meters

A French appeals court has ruled that a homeowner can legally have his Linky smart electricity meter removed due to health concerns. This could set a legal precedent.

Read the full newsletter at EMFSA January 2025 Newsletter https://mailchi.mp/emfsa/ai-fire-hazards

Sign up for our free monthly newsletter https://www.emfsa.co.za/newsletter/

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