On behalf of the EU Steering Group on the Future of Science and Technology (STOA), a study was published in June 2021 to investigate the “Health Impact of 5G”.
The study looks closely at the potential health risks of 5G technology, in particular the potential carcinogenic risks and the effects on fertility and development. While we all enjoy the benefits of 5G – such as faster internet and better connectivity – the question arises as to what consequences the resulting electromagnetic fields (EMF) could have for our health.
A central point of the study is the assessment of potential cancer risks from the electromagnetic fields emitted by 5G. In the lower 5G frequencies (FR1: 450 MHz – 6 GHz), there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans, particularly in relation to gliomas (brain tumors) and acoustic neuromas (tumors of the auditory nerve). In experimental animals, however, there is clearer evidence to suggest that these frequencies may be carcinogenic.
For the higher 5G frequencies (FR2: 24 GHz – 100 GHz), however, the data situation is still inadequate. There are not enough studies to date to make a well-founded statement about possible carcinogenic risks in this frequency range. Based on the findings to date, the study classifies EMF in the FR1 range as probably carcinogenic for humans, while further research is still required for FR2 frequencies.
The effects on fertility and development were also investigated. The results show that EMF in the FR1 range can have significant negative effects on male fertility, particularly through reduced sperm quality. In humans, there is also limited evidence of possible risks to female fertility and fetal development. In experimental animals, the results are even clearer: clear adverse effects on reproductive capacity and embryonic development were found. For the higher frequencies (FR2), sufficient studies are still lacking, so that no reliable statements can be made on non-thermal effects on fertility and development. The authors of the study therefore emphasize the need for further research in this area.
In addition to the classic thermal effects, in which tissue is heated by EMF, the study also shows non-thermal effects that have not yet been taken into account in the current ICNIRP guidelines (2020). These include DNA damage, which can potentially lead to genetic mutations, oxidative stress, which attacks cells and can lead to inflammation, and changes to cell membranes, which could impair communication between cells. These non-thermal effects raise additional questions about the health safety of 5G technology and highlight that current protection guidelines may be inadequate.
In view of these findings, the study makes specific recommendations to minimize potential risks. It calls for the development of safer technologies with lower EMF emissions and a revision of exposure limits, particularly to protect sensitive population groups such as children and pregnant women. Another focus is on expanding research, especially on the higher 5G frequencies, for which insufficient data is currently available. Information campaigns are also recommended to educate the public about potential risks and protective measures. In addition, the authors advocate the application of the precautionary principle, especially when introducing new 5G frequencies, until their harmlessness to health has been clearly proven.
Overall, the study clearly shows that the lower 5G frequencies (FR1) are probably carcinogenic and can have demonstrably harmful effects on male fertility. Sufficient data is currently lacking for the higher frequencies (FR2), meaning that a final verdict is not yet possible. Nevertheless, the study recommends a precautionary approach to the further introduction of 5G and calls for more research into the health effects, particularly with regard to long-term exposure. Even if the risks have not yet been conclusively clarified, simple measures in everyday life can help to reduce personal EMF exposure – such as switching off Wi-Fi routers at night, using hands-free devices or regularly spending time in nature away from electromagnetic fields. In this way, you can benefit from the advantages of modern technology without unnecessarily endangering your own health.
