Amid the telecommunications industry's drive for universal digital access, experts caution about the threat of radiofrequency radiation emitted by cell towers, antennas, and wireless devices, comparing its dangers to tobacco as regulators hesitate to update safety standards set in the mid-1990s.
Stacy Gittleman reports for Downtown Newsmagazine.
In short:
- Recent research highlights potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation from cell towers and wireless devices, raising concerns about outdated regulatory safety limits.
- The growth of the telecommunications industry and the rollout of 5G technology intensify concerns over RF radiation exposure, with implications for public health and the environment.
- Efforts to raise awareness and push for updated safety standards face challenges from powerful industry lobbying, yet legal and community actions aim to address these emerging health concerns.
Key quote:
"We are bombarded with radiation from these devices, which to me is more problematic than waves coming from cell phone towers."
— Joel M. Moskowitz, director of the Center for Family and Community Health at the School of Public Health at the University of California, Berkeley
Why this matters:
All wireless devices, including cell phones, WiFi routers and the towers they depend on for service, emit radiofrequency (RF) radiation. While this radiation is different from high frequency radiation (like the type emitted by x-rays), a growing body of data suggests that RF radiation may still have the ability to alter cellular molecules, potentially increasing the risk for negative health impacts. With 91% of US homes connected to WiFi and an average of 17 wireless devices per household, experts encourage continued research and recommend exercising caution by taking small steps to reduce personal exposure.
