5G and health: A new WHO-backed study rekindles concerns about radiofrequency risks ⚠️

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As 5G continues its rapid global rollout, a study published in Environment International in April 2025 is reviving fears about the potential health effects of mobile technologies. Led by an international team and partially funded by the World Health Organization (WHO), the study reviewed 52 experiments conducted between 1978 and 2020. It reveals a statistical link between prolonged exposure to certain radio frequencies and the development of rare cancers in rodents.

A Promising Yet Still Controversial Technology 📶

Since its debut, 5G has been hailed as a game-changer for the digital economy, offering ultra-fast connection speeds and extremely low latency. It relies on a dense network of small antennas using Massive MIMO technology and operates on broader frequency bands, including millimeter waves above 26 GHz.

However, the technology has sparked controversy from the start. In Nigeria, for instance, authorities had to conduct an official investigation to calm public anxiety. These fears are not new — for decades, wireless technologies have been suspected of posing health risks, suspicions that are often reignited by new research.

Two Tumor Types Under Close Watch 🧠

The study highlights an increased risk of two types of tumors in rodents: malignant schwannomas (tumors of the peripheral nerves) and gliomas (brain tumors). These findings mainly come from two landmark studies: one conducted in the United States under the National Toxicology Program, and another in Italy by the Ramazzini Institute.

In both cases, tumors developed in abnormally high numbers — even at exposure levels close to current regulatory thresholds. Researchers believe the recurrence of such results in two different animal species is a cause for concern.

Biological Effects Still Poorly Understood 🧬

What puzzles scientists is the lack of a clear biological mechanism to explain these findings. Unlike ionizing radiation (like X-rays), RF EMFs (radiofrequency electromagnetic fields) do not carry enough energy to break DNA molecules.

One hypothesis involves oxidative stress — a form of cellular damage that may lead to genetic mutations. Another theory suggests a subtle thermal effect, although no significant temperature increase has been observed in certain experiments. The mere fact that effects could occur below current exposure limits is prompting experts to question existing standards.

Cautious but Concerning Conclusions ❗

The study notes that only 20 of the 52 experiments analyzed meet the strict standards of toxicological research. Many results are still preliminary or indirect, often based on genetically modified animal models or high-dose exposure.

Still, certain patterns — such as an increase in gland-related tumors — deserve careful monitoring. While no direct evidence of increased cancer risk in humans has yet been established, the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) already classified radiofrequency radiation as “possibly carcinogenic” back in 2011.

Toward Better Protection for Users 🛡️

Pending further research, health authorities continue to advise caution. People are urged not to sleep with their phones under their pillows, to favor wired earphones, and to turn off wireless connections at night. These precautions are especially important for children and pregnant women.

What about you — are you concerned about the potential health risks of 5G? Let us know in the comments 😊