What is 5G?
In 2019, 5G networks were released. The term “5G” stands for “fifth generation.”
5G wireless technology is meant to deliver higher multi-Gbps peak data speeds, ultra low latency, more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more uniform user experience to more users. Higher performance and improved efficiency empower new user experiences and connects new industries.
This is expected to support the increasing number of electronic devices and services, including:
- self-driving cars;
- virtual reality appliances;
- telemedicine;
- remote surveillance;
- telesurgery.
5G works by using higher frequencies on the electromagnetic spectrum. The frequencies range from 3.5 gigahertz (GHz) to several tens of GHz.
Before 5G was launched, these higher frequencies weren’t used in mobile networks. They are typically used in devices like security scanners.
It’s worth noting that electromagnetic frequencies are produced by anything that uses electricity. This includes:
- microwaves;
- power lines;
- computers and others.
5G also uses a method called beamforming, which sends data directly to devices. This is different from previous generations, which sent signals in all directions.
5G works by producing a type of energy called electromagnetic radiation. It uses higher frequencies than previous wireless networks, making it faster and more efficient.
Electromagnetic frequencies, like those produced by 5G, create an area called an electromagnetic field (EMF). Some people believe EMFs have negative health effects. As a result, there is concern about how 5G affects health.
Does 5G technology have any effects on health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source, there is limited research on the frequencies used in 5G.
There is more research on the health effects of electromagnetic fields across the spectrum. However, the results are inconsistent.
To date, EMFs have been potentially associated with:
Tissue heating
A small 2017 studyTrusted Source showed that mobile phones use frequencies of 1.8 to 2.2 GHz. These frequencies cause tissue heating, according to WHO.
This causes a slight rise in temperature in your brain and body.
A 2021 studyTrusted Source also found that people experience more EMF-related tissue heating as they get older. Plus, the higher the EMFs, the more they absorb. That’s because older individuals tend to have reduced skin thickness and blood flow.
Cognitive function
There’s some research involving EMFs from other sources. In a small 2017 studyTrusted Source, researchers examined how using a mobile phone affects cognitive function. The researchers found that using a mobile phone for at least 90 minutes a day is associated with attention difficulties.
Cancer
In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) stated EMFs are “possibly carcinogenic” to humans. The classification was determined by 30 scientists from 14 countries. To date, most studies have examined the potential link between EMFs and brain cancer. But the results have been inconsistent.
For example, a 2017 research review found that EMF radiation from mobile phones are associated with glioma, a type of brain cancer. A 2018 study, on the other hand, did not find a clear association between high frequency EMFs and brain tumors.
Is 5F frequency or radiation harmful to animals?
There’s limited research on how 5G specifically affects animals.
Most research has involved mice or rats. For example, a 2019 animal studyTrusted Source found that EMFs from mobile phones are linked to DNA damage in mice and rats.
Another 2016 animal studyTrusted Source found that EMFs of any frequencies can harm the nervous system.