New Study Finds 5G Safe, Even at Intensified Exposure Levels

Despite long-standing public concerns, a new peer-reviewed study has reaffirmed the safety of 5G wireless technology—even under conditions that exceed typical exposure limits. Published in PNAS Nexus, the research offers compelling evidence that electromagnetic frequencies used in 5G networks do not harm human health.

Figure 1. Telecom tower aerial view, Goonellabah, NSW

Wireless communication systems, including 4G and 5G, rely on radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic waves to transmit data. These frequencies are measured in hertz (Hz), and span a broad spectrum—from low-frequency kilohertz (kHz) to high-frequency terahertz (THz) [1]. As frequency increases, so does the efficiency of data transmission. Figure 1 shows Telecom tower aerial view, Goonellabah, NSW.

5G operates primarily in the hundreds of megahertz (MHz) to tens of gigahertz (GHz) range, with next-generation deployments expanding into what's known as the FR2 band—24.3–27.5 GHz and 39.5–43.3 GHz. Despite the technological promise, its introduction in 2019 revived public fears about potential biological effects, particularly the risk of cancer and gene expression changes due to deeper skin penetration.

Addressing these concerns head-on, researchers at Germany’s Constructor University used state-of-the-art tools, including whole-genome RNA sequencing and methylation analysis, to study the impact of high-intensity 5G exposure on human skin cells. These cells were subjected to radiation levels ten times higher than current safety standards, over durations of two and 48 hours.

The key takeaway? Even when radiofrequency energy penetrated a few millimetres into the skin—well beyond the sub-millimetre reach of legal exposure levels—there were no statistically significant changes in gene expression or DNA/RNA methylation. The study was double-blinded to eliminate bias and employed rigorous controls to ensure data reliability.

“Our findings show no evidence of harmful effects at the cellular level,” the authors wrote. “This strongly challenges the narrative of 5G posing a health risk, especially regarding nonthermal biological effects.”

While earlier studies have been criticized for poor methodology and lack of transparency, this research sets a new benchmark in the debate around electromagnetic exposure [2]. The researchers hope their results help put widespread fears to rest and encourage confidence in the safe expansion of 5G technology.

References:

1. https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/internet/5g-safe-gene-expression/
2. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/new-study-confirms-5g-is-safe-no-harm-found-in-human-cell-exposure/articleshow/121283407.cms

Cite this article:

Janani R (2025), 5G Penetrates Skin Millimeters, But Remains Safe, AnaTechMaz, pp. 169