As 5G technology proliferates globally, concerns about its health implications have become a central point of discussion among scientists, healthcare providers, and the public. This article examines the potential health risks associated with 5G technology, compares these risks to previous generations of cellular technology, and discusses current research and expert opinions on the matter.
Understanding 5G and Its Exposure Levels
5G technology uses higher frequency bands than previous generations, which include the millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum. These high-frequency waves can transmit large amounts of data faster and with lower latency but have a shorter range and lower penetration capabilities compared to lower-frequency waves. The exposure to these high frequencies has raised concerns about potential health impacts, especially given their novel application in consumer devices and infrastructure.
Potential Health Risks
The primary concern with 5G exposure revolves around the potential for increased radiation absorption in human tissues:
Skin Absorption: Early studies suggest that mmWave frequencies tend to be absorbed by the skin’s surface layers, potentially affecting the skin and eyes due to their superficial penetration.
Thermal Effects: There is concern about the thermal effects of prolonged exposure to high-frequency waves, which can cause tissue heating and may lead to adverse health effects.
Systemic Impact: While the long-term systemic impacts of 5G are still under study, preliminary research indicates potential effects on immune and neurological function.
Comparative Analysis with Previous Generations
While previous cellular network generations (like 3G and 4G) have been studied more extensively, the shift to higher frequencies with 5G necessitates new research paradigms. Past studies on 3G and 4G highlighted concerns over possible links to conditions such as headaches, cognitive dysfunction, and even cancer, but the evidence was not conclusive. The higher frequency and intensity of 5G exposure call for renewed scrutiny and updated methodologies to ensure public safety.
Current Research and Expert Opinions
Ongoing research into 5G’s health effects is mixed, with some studies indicating minimal risk while others suggest potential harm. Institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) are closely monitoring these developments. The WHO has categorized all radiofrequency radiation (which includes mobile phone frequencies) as a possible human carcinogen (Group 2B), indicating that there is a potential risk that needs further investigation.
Regulatory and Health Advisory Responses
Regulatory bodies worldwide are updating their guidelines to address potential risks associated with 5G:
Safety Standards: Updated safety standards are being implemented, which consider the specific absorption rate (SAR) values of devices and infrastructure.
Public Health Guidelines: Health authorities are developing guidelines that recommend minimizing exposure, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
Regulatory Capture: Kennedy highlighted the extensive control that large corporations, especially within the telecommunications sector, exert over regulatory bodies such as the FCC and FDA. This control results in lax enforcement and regulations that favor industry interests over public health [5].
Media Influence: Significant advertising spending by telecommunications giants effectively silences negative media coverage about EMF pollution, leading to a lack of public awareness and understanding of the associated health risks [5].
Health Risks and Public Ignorance: There is a strong scientific consensus about the harmful effects of EMF exposure, including cancer, neurological disorders, and immune system disruption. However, the public remains largely unaware or dismissive of these risks, partly due to media manipulation and the convenience provided by wireless technologies [5].
Litigation and Advocacy: Kennedy discusses ongoing legal battles aimed at challenging regulatory failures and pushing for stricter EMF exposure guidelines. These include suits against both the government and private corporations for failing to protect public health [5].
Policy and Personnel Changes: The summit emphasized the need for sweeping changes in the staffing and policy direction of regulatory agencies to combat the issue of regulatory capture. This includes replacing industry-affiliated personnel with experts who prioritize public health [5].
Global Impact and Environmental Concerns: The unchecked proliferation of telecommunications infrastructure, including satellites, poses significant threats not only to human health but also to wildlife and ecosystems. There is a call for comprehensive environmental assessments and stricter global regulations [5].
Medical Gaslighting: Individuals reporting symptoms related to EMF exposure often face dismissal and skepticism from the medical community, a phenomenon Kennedy identifies as a form of medical gaslighting. This systemic issue needs addressing through better education and awareness in the healthcare industry [5].
These insights highlight the critical need for regulatory reform, increased public engagement, and stronger advocacy to mitigate the impacts of EMF pollution and ensure that technological advancements do not come at the expense of public health and ecological integrity.
Conclusion
The health implications of 5G technology are a complex and evolving area of study. As this technology becomes more widespread, it is crucial that rigorous, independent research continues to monitor its health impacts. Public policy and health advisories will need to adapt based on these findings to safeguard public health while harnessing the benefits of 5G’s advancements.
I had a very wonderful experience working with a mother concerning her autistic daughter who is seven years old. Sue (not her real name) was already providing the right foods and nutrition for her daughter (eliminating all processed foods, etc.) and using the right household cleaning products (no chemicals that can harm the body). But there was still a nagging issue, what else can she do as a mother to help her daughter overcome autism.
On the internet searching for answers, Sue came across a plethora of information on EMF and was overwhelmed. She found the EMF Expert website and my name in the EMF Professional Directory that she came across there. We had several phone calls and numerous texts since we live over two hours away from each other. We discussed and explored different ways to help her family eliminate EMF exposure in the household.
First topic of concern was EMF exposure from cell towers in their local area. I helped Sue find the EMF Experts website cell tower locator map to find out how close she was to any cell towers – (https://www.emf-experts.com/cell-tower.html ). She was very relieved to find the closest one was five miles away.
The next topic we talked about was the smart meter. Sue was not aware of any issues that can come from a smart meter. The next day after our discussion on this topic, she called the electric company. Within one week, Sue was able to have an analog meter installed and had the smart meter removed. This did come at a price – it cost the family an installation fee of $75 to put in the analog meter and now a monthly fee to read the meter at $17 a month. For Sue, to help her daughter, this was well worth it.
Another way to cut down on EMF exposure, we explored the computer setup – how many computers in the household and the location of the computers. The family has only one computer located in the living room. To reduce the WiFi exposure, the family did wire their computer within a couple of days. It was suggested to turn off the router at night. Sue stated she will start working with her daughter on school work in another room away from the computer area. Sue noticed once she did that, her daughter’s attention span was much longer than when they worked by the computer.
The family owns two cell phones and the husband uses blue tooth ear buds. For their cells phones and blue tooth ear buds, we discussed getting cell phone shield covers and air tube headsets to block the microwave signals directed toward the head and body. I gave Sue the website for Less EMF that sells cell phone shield covers and air tube headsets (lessemf@lessemf.com). We also talked about disengaging the GPS in their car as well.
Taking a step further we spoke about grounding and I sent her a book on this subject “Earthing” by Clinton Ober to read. The book states, (Page 175) “Earthing is not a cure for autism, but over the years it’s been observed to have a calming effect, improve sleep patterns and promote better speech and socializing. Earthing reduces inflammation and strengthens the immune system , and thus, may offer additional benefit, especially in light of recent autism research revealing the presence of brain inflammation and immune system dysfunction….may lessen the stress level in the whole family.” Sue mentioned how her daughter would only hug a tree during recess and not play with the other children. Interestingly, this little girl was trying to ground with the earth. Her mother mentioned how she will always touch live plants and hold the leaves in her hand. We talked about planting a tree in her backyard – perhaps the same one she hugged at recess.
Since there was not a deep sleep pattern for her or her daughter at night, I mentioned the Bedroom Sanctuary book from EMF Experts which she got and the family hopes to implement shortly.
The outcome was phenomenal. Not only is the mother sleeping “so hard” as she stated, but her daughter is sleeping better and more hours, and is much more responsive now. One day she did not ask for her ipad for 8 hours (which we talked about the EMF coming from that as well).
It is very gratifying to be able to help people and make a difference in their lives, especially for little children.
Karen Portz
Working as a Myofascial Release therapist, I wanted another tool to help make a difference in helping my clients live healthy lives. Having received my EMF certification, I can present information to my clients and help them become aware about the dangers of EMF and ways to protect themselves from electrosmog.
Sprint was forced to shut down a cellphone tower that was located outside of a school in the suburbs of Sacramento, California. The tower location became a topic of controversy in recent years, as numerous children in the school have developed cancer.
At least 4 students at a San Joaquin County elementary school have gotten cancer since the cell tower was installed, and after a while, many of the parents began pointing the finger at Sprint.
Monica Ferrulli, the mother of one of the children diagnosed with cancer, says that her son’s doctors have indicated that this specific type of cancer is caused by something the patient was exposed to in their environment.
“We had a doctor tell us that it’s 100 percent environmental, the kind of tumor that he has,” Ferrulli told CBS Sacramento.
“It is classified as a possible carcinogen. That tells us that there is some evidence out there,” Ferrulli said. “We’re not naive to the fact that there could be other components out there — other environmental influences… but the bottom line that we feel in regards to this tower is it doesn’t belong there… if there’s any indications that it’s unsafe,” Ferrulli added.
Joe Prime, another parent who now has a child battling cancer as well, says that the towers need to go before more people are exposed.
“My son missed growing up with his friends. My son lost all of his hair. It’s not something that I wish on anybody to watch their child go through what our children have gone through,” Prime said.
Initially, the school district was hesitant to call off their deal with Sprint, but Prime and Ferrulli were able to apply enough legal pressure on them to get the tower removed.
Parents were also upset that Sprint provided the school district with a kickback of $2,000 per month for allowing the tower on their property.
Experts say that regardless of federal standards, it is dangerous to have young children by in such close proximity to these devices on such a regular basis.
Eric Windheim, an electromagnetic radiation specialist, says that these frequencies can have an effect on the cells of children because they are still growing and developing.
“I wouldn’t send my kids there at all, it absolutely is dangerous. Children are still developing, and their cells are still being divided. It’s the worst possible time in their life to be exposed. Instead of only going 300 yards like regular Wi-Fi, Y-Max can go 30 miles,” he said.
Sprint network project manager Dharma Nordell told CBS News that three tests have shown the tower is operating 100 times below the federal limit. Nordell said that the tower was removed because of the concerns of the residents, but when asked if he believed that the tower was giving people cancer, he replied “Absolutely not. It is not a safety concern to the community but we do hear the community’s concerns, so we’re quickly working to relocate the tower.”
John Vibes is an author and journalist who takes a special interest in the counter culture, and focuses solutions-oriented approaches to social problems. He is also a host of The Free Your Mind Conference and The Free Thought Project Podcast. Read More stories by John Vibes
There are debates that some individuals are dropping sleep in favor of spending long hours chatting or connecting through their smartphones, lap tops and other new technologies.
But should sound or sufficient sleep become less and less important or attractive in this age of smartphones, apps and other technologies?
The lack of good sleep is said to have some serious public health implications, which cannot be overlooked.
The Washington Post, in a January 2019, article titled: “Go to bed! Brain researchers warn that lack of sleep is a public health crisis,” brought to fore some conclusions from research work on the health implications of having little time to sleep.
The article said a growing number of scientists are cautioning that the lack of sleep is a simmering public health crisis that needs urgent attention.
Quoting Daniel Buysse, a professor of sleep medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, the article said: “it used to be popular for people to say, ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead.’ The ironic thing is, not sleeping enough may get you there sooner,” the article added.
There are more questions however beyond just new technologies keeping people awake.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), in collaboration with other stakeholders, has had reason to examine other health threats associated with the use of technologies, especially mobile phones.
In responding to specific concerns under the broad topic: “what are the health risks associated with mobile phones and their base stations,” the WHO in a 2013 question and answer document, noted that given the “immense number of people who use mobile phones, even a small increase in the incidence of adverse effects on health could have major public health implications.”
The global body touched on concerns between these phones and areas such as cancer, electromagnetic interference and traffic accidents.
It said studies had so far not provided indication that environmental exposure to radiofrequency (RF) fields, such as from base stations, increases the risk of cancer or any other disease.
Other conclusions were that while “an increased risk of brain tumours from the use of mobile phones is not established, the increasing use of mobile phones and the lack of data for mobile phone use over time, periods longer than 15 years, warrant further research of mobile phone use and brain cancer risk.”
“In particular, with the recent popularity of mobile phone use among younger people, and therefore a potentially longer lifetime of exposure, WHO has promoted further research on this group and assessing the health impact of RF fields on all studied endpoints, ” the document added.
It said research had, however, shown an increased risk of traffic accidents with some three to four times greater chance of an accident, when mobile phones (either handheld or with a “hands-free” kit) are used while driving due to distraction.
In 2014, the WHO further put out some statements on electromagnetic fields and the public health implication of mobile phone use.
It noted that mobile phone use is ubiquitous with an estimated 6.9 billion subscriptions globally and that the electromagnetic fields produced by mobile phones are classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as possibly carcinogenic to humans.
It noted however that studies are still being carried out “to more fully assess potential long-term effects of mobile phone use.”
Research and Discussions
With some reassuring words, the WHO said a large number of studies have been performed over the last two decades to assess whether mobile phones pose a potential health risk and that, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use.
The WHO established the International Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) Project in 1996 to assess the scientific evidence of possible adverse health effects from electromagnetic fields.
With all the concerns being raised over the use of new technologies, a collaborative meeting was held in Tokyo to assess the public health implications of excessive use of the internet, computers, smartphones and similar electronic devices
The Tokyo meeting report, later published by the WHO in 2015, stated that the meeting was organized to discuss the public health implications of excessive use of the internet, computers, smartphones and other electronic devices in the context of “behavioural addictions” associated with such excessive use.
According to the report, the rising popularity and “use of the internet and electronic devices has seen an increasing clinical, research and media focus on health problems associated with excessive use.”
The report said harmful use of the internet and modern technologies can relate to a wide range of products and services.
“These include older types of electronic screen products such as televisions and videos, as well as newer electronic screen products such as computers, smartphones, video game devices and e-books.”
During the meeting at Tokyo, the report stated that individuals with excessive use of the internet have comorbid psychopathology.
It said in addition to comorbidity with psychiatric conditions, excessive use of the internet and electronic devices typically presents itself together with other physical and psychosocial problems, such as back pain, social withdrawal, sleep deprivation and low self-esteem.
Other were linked to sedentary lifestyle through excessive screen time associated with snacking and poor diet, decreased sleep time, insufficient physical fitness, headache, blurred vision and even double vision.
It also noted that electronic devices with audio entertainment functions can typically “generate harmful levels of sound, which can be linked to permanent hearing damage”
Adding that the issue of mobile electronic devices, such as smartphones, commonly used while doing other tasks, could make the user more “prone to injuries and accidents.”
The meeting however concluded that the “review of available evidence on internet use disorders and excessive use of the internet and electronic devices identified important gaps to be filled in coming years.
It is not surprising that the theme chosen for the commemoration of the 2018 World Mental Health Day focused on young people and mental health in a changing world, with some experts expressing concerns over the impact of new technologies on young people and their mental health.
This young group is in constant online communications searching for identity, self-esteem and acceptance, among others, predisposing them to many mental health challenges.
Last year, in an article titled: “Are our smartphones affecting our mental health,” the WHO office in China noted that: “For many of us in 2018 our smartphone feels like an extension of our body, permanently affixed to our hand like an extra appendage. It’s the first thing we look at when we wake up and the last thing before we go to sleep.”
The article questioned if addiction to these technologies can be classified as a mental disorder and if there is enough scientific evidence to know exactly how the “excessive use of electronic devices is affecting our health?”
It noted that the use of smartphones, the internet, and other electronic devices has dramatically increased in recent decades, with China now having the largest internet market in the world.
Adding that more than half of China’s population is connected to the internet and more than 90% of them access the Web by smartphone.
The article was quick to add that it is also important that “we remember the positive role such technologies can have in our lives. From mindfulness apps or health trackers, to the monitoring of disease treatment for conditions such as diabetes, or apps that help us track our medication….”
There is no doubt that new technologies are becoming very helpful but there is the need for more debates, research and discussions to ensure that modern day technologies remain good servants providing very useful services.
Otherwise online technologies could become tyrants controlling and determining the health outcomes of their human masters.
