The rollout of 5G technology is exciting for many people because of the faster data speeds available through cell phone services. These infrastructure updates are happening across the country and throughout the world.
Major cellular providers like AT&T and Verizon are investing billions of dollars in order to provide 5G access to customers. Residents in Dallas, Texas, were among the first to access these network upgrades, with limited 5G coverage starting in 2020.
As wireless technology changes are continuing to expand, will these changes affect health? A few health practitioners are starting to speak up about the effects of radiofrequency waves on human health. Government agencies and organizations hold the firm opinion that there isn’t anything to be worried about, but the question still arises: how will 5G affect your health?
What is 5G Technology
The phrase “5G” refers to the latest technology in the mobile industry – the fifth generation since the launch of this technology years ago. It’s easy to see why 5G is a desirable feature because it promises faster data speeds for streaming, browsing, connectivity, and download.
Updates to cell towers are gradually switching 4G service to 5G service. To access the full benefits of these updated speeds, you must have a 5G cell phone as well.
One notable difference with 5G is the use of higher-frequency bandwidths. Auctions are happing through the Federal Communications Commission to provide access to a range of bandwidths across the radiofrequency spectrum – starting with 28 gigahertz (GHz).
Keep in mind that 5G isn’t a replacement for 4G. Instead, both 4G and 5G will be simultaneous for now, which could cause synergistic effects from the dual EMF exposure at different wavelengths.
Spectrum of Frequency Waves in Our Digital World
To understand whether 5G affects human health, you need to know about electromagnetic radiation. This form of energy happens when there is a flow of electricity. It creates an electromagnetic field (EMF), with the strongest fields near power lines and outlets.
The lowest end of the spectrum is where the power lines operate – between 50 – 60 Hz. Other low-frequency waves are all around us, such as radio waves, infrared radiation, microwaves, the UV spectrum. As you continue up to higher frequency waves, you reach the level of nonionizing radiation: megahertz, gigahertz, and terahertz.
The highest wavelengths are gamma rays and e-rays, including petahertz and exahertz. These wavelengths of ionizing radiation are significantly higher in energy – enough to cause significant damage to the body because the power can break molecules apart.
Exposure to EMFs happens to most people through the use of handheld devices, such as tablets, cell phones, cellular base stations, TV antennas, and medical applications. The wavelengths from these applications range between 30 kilohertz – 300 GHz.
Conflicting Findings: Does 5G Affect Human Health?
These wavelengths are happening at low levels, even when you don’t have a cell phone in hand. The main point of debate is how the ongoing exposure could be impacting human health. While additional research is necessary, early findings show a potential connection with RF-EMFs and the development of cancer:
- The Lancet Oncology research paved the way by assessing the connection between cancer and RF-EMFs. These findings report that there is a possible link and RF-EMFs are potentially carcinogenic to humans.
- A recent publication in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health shows evidence that there is a possibility of both nononcologic (metabolic, reproductive, neurologic, and microbiologic) and oncologic (cancer) effects from RF-EMF exposure.
- The Cesare Maltoni Cancer Research Center in Bologna, Italy, discovered an increase in heart tumors for rats exposed to RF-EMF.
- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shares information through the National Toxicology Program. Findings report evidence of tumor development in rats exposed to high levels (900 MHz).
On the other hand, the World Health Organization (WHO) has a separate publication that shares a different conclusion. These findings show that there are no adverse health effects from long-term exposure to low-level radiofrequency. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission also agrees with this finding.
Uncovering the Truth Behind Radiofrequency Exposure
Finding clear answers about how radiofrequency affects human health requires looking at conflicts of interest in the research findings. Even though the WHO doesn’t classify RF-EMFs as possibly carcinogenic, other scientific and medical experts disagree. Results show that there are bioeffects to RF-EMF exposure, potentially causing a variety of health concerns:
- DNA damage
- Carcinogenicity
- Neurotoxicity
- Oxidative stress
- Fetal and newborn development
- Sperm changes
- Autism
The main concern is how oxidative stress affects cellular health, causing potential tumor growth, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues.
Certain health practitioners are speaking out, asking health agencies and governments to protect the public by creating safety limits.
Continuing Research Is Necessary
Because there are so many environmental and genetic factors that can influence the development of cancer, it’s a challenge to pinpoint the exact cause. As 5G continues to expand, we must watch for the potential health impacts.
It’s a controversial topic. As scientists speak out about their concerns, they are censored online and accused of “fear-mongering” over the rollout of 5G. The International EMF Scientist Appeal is an organization leading the way, asking for more substantial limits to minimize exposure. Over 240 scientists signed this appeal and stand behind the idea that EMF damage affects not only humans but also animal life and plant life.
5G is a new technology, which means that we are “flying blind” to the potential health impacts of this exposure. Even with 10 years of exposure to 4G, little is known about the health effects. The unfortunate truth is that government organizations aren’t proactively pursuing this research, which is why doctors and individuals are starting to speak up.
Legal Experts Protecting Your Rights
If you have cancer or a serious health condition linked to environmental exposure, then it’s time to talk to our expert team. We’ll help you build a case and find the right pathway for gaining access to potential compensation if it is available. When you need help, contact Shamieh Law to learn more about our quality legal services in Dallas, Texas, and the surrounding areas.