Is 5G Harmful to Health? An Open-Minded Look at the Evidence

Introduction

The rollout of 5G (fifth-generation wireless technology) has been met with both excitement and concern. On the one hand, it promises faster internet, more reliable connections, and the infrastructure needed for smart cities and autonomous vehicles. On the other, it has sparked widespread public debate about possible health effects — particularly concerning radiation exposure.

Is there any real evidence that 5G is harmful to humans? Or is the concern largely unfounded? Let’s explore what the science says.

What is 5G?

5G uses higher frequency radio waves than its predecessors, particularly in the millimetre wave (MMW) range (30–300 GHz), although current deployments also use frequencies already used by 4G and Wi-Fi.

Because these higher-frequency waves have shorter ranges, 5G infrastructure requires many more antennas placed closer together — often on lampposts, rooftops, or buildings.

Understanding Radiation Types

First, it’s important to distinguish between ionising and non-ionising radiation.

Ionising radiation (like X-rays or gamma rays) has enough energy to damage DNA.
Non-ionising radiation (like radio waves used in mobile communications) does not.

5G falls under non-ionising radiation. This means it does not carry enough energy to ionise atoms or molecules in human tissue — a key argument used by regulatory bodies to claim safety.

The Official Position

Most major health authorities agree that current evidence does not support claims of harm:

World Health Organization (WHO): States there is no conclusive evidence that exposure to low-level electromagnetic fields (EMFs) is harmful to human health WHO, 2020.
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP): Updated its guidelines in 2020 and concluded that 5G frequencies, within regulated limits, do not pose a known health risk ICNIRP, 2020.
UK Health Security Agency (formerly PHE): Echoes WHO, adding that while more research is ongoing, current exposures are well below recommended limits UKHSA, 2021.

Challenging the Consensus: What Some Studies Suggest

Despite official reassurances, a growing number of scientists are calling for more rigorous studies and caution. Some concerns include:

1. Biological Effects of EMFs

The BioInitiative Report (2012) reviewed over 1,800 studies and concluded that prolonged exposure to EMFs — even at low levels — could contribute to biological stress, DNA damage, and oxidative effects in cells BioInitiative Working Group, 2012.
A 2018 study by the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) exposed rats to 2G and 3G radiofrequency radiation and found “clear evidence” of tumours in male rats. While not directly about 5G, it raised questions about long-term cumulative effects NTP Final Report, 2018.

2. Millimetre Waves and Skin

5G’s higher frequencies are absorbed mostly by the skin and eyes. A 2020 review in Frontiers in Public Health suggested that this concentration could have thermal and non-thermal biological effects that have not yet been fully studied Di Ciaula, 2020.

3. Electrohypersensitivity (EHS)

Although not recognised as a formal diagnosis by most health systems, some people report symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances they attribute to EMF exposure. A 2021 review explored the psychological and physiological aspects of EHS, highlighting the need for better research methodologies Rubin et al., 2021.

Gaps in the Research

Many critics argue that most safety studies on EMFs are based on short-term exposure or outdated technology. 5G’s unique properties — including the use of beam-forming antennas and simultaneous connections — haven’t been studied extensively over long periods.

Additionally, cumulative and synergistic effects of being constantly exposed to a dense network of EMF sources are still poorly understood.

The Precautionary Principle

Some countries, such as Switzerland, Belgium, and parts of Italy, have delayed or limited 5G deployment in certain areas until more health studies are available. This approach reflects the precautionary principle, which encourages action to prevent harm even when full scientific certainty is lacking.

Conclusion: Proceed with Curiosity and Caution

The current mainstream consensus is that 5G, under current exposure limits, is not proven to be harmful. However, this is not the same as proven to be safe over decades — especially for children, the elderly, or those already reporting sensitivity to EMFs.

Science evolves, and with it, so should our understanding of the technologies we rely on. Ongoing independent research, transparent safety testing, and public access to results are essential.

Keeping an open mind means acknowledging both the potential and the risks — without jumping to conclusions, but also without ignoring early warning signs.