Health issues using 5G frequencies from an engineering perspective: Current review

Abstract

Abstract The possible adverse health effects of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure have been in research focus since radio waves were introduced to telecommunication. Broadcast radio systems, satellites, and mobile communication devices use different bands of the radio spectrum, antennas, modulations, and radiated power. The proliferation of cellular networks and mobile phones as user devices have brought transmitting and receiving antennas in the close proximity of the human body and the head. Hundreds of experiments have been conducted to prove and disprove adverse health effects of exposure. Literature reviews of experimental results have also followed the current developments in technology; however, an exhaustive analysis performed on the methodologies has revealed many flaws and problems. This article focuses on the latest results on frequency bands mostly used for 5G below and above 6 GHz in the mmWave band. Current results do not indicate significant health effects and responses below the current safety limits. Nevertheless, further research directions can be identified, especially for mmWave radiation.