
Is 5G harmful to humans? Scientists finally test it by blasting human cells with 5G waves
There are many conspiracy theories. And one of them is that 5G is harmful to birds, and if it is harmful to birds then it is probably harmful to humans and their brain. Now, a recent study is giving a clear answer to this question. Do 5G signals pose danger to human health? The answer is: no, they do not.Scientists at Germany's Constructor University recently conducted research and came to conclusion that '5G-exposed human skin cells do not respond with altered gene expression and methylation profiles'. advertisementDuring this research the scientists directly exposed human skin cells to high-intensity 5G electromagnetic waves. And the results were reassuring. Published in PNAS Nexus, the study puts an end to the ongoing debate over the potential health risks of 5G technology.To see the impact of 5G waves, researchers used two types of human skin cells — fibroblasts and keratinocytes — and exposed them to frequencies of 27 GHz and 40.5 GHz, which fall within the higher-end spectrum of 5G signals. These higher frequencies are part of the millimetre-wave bands expected to be widely deployed in the near future. According to the study, "even under worst-case conditions, no significant changes in gene expression or methylation patterns are observed after exposure."'We wanted to simulate worst-case exposure conditions,' the researchers were quoted as saying in reports. They also deliberately applied electromagnetic fields significantly stronger than what is permitted under international safety guidelines. According to the study, the exposure times ranged from two to 48 hours, simulating both short-term and prolonged contact with 5G signals.advertisementSpecifically, the research points out that there were no detectable alterations in gene expression or DNA methylation. Notably, both gene expression and DNA are key indicators of cellular health and function. According to the study, frequencies up to 3 GHz can penetrate about 10 millimetres into the skin, while those at or above 10 GHz barely reach beyond 1 millimetre. This according to the researchers makes any deep biological interaction extremely unlikely.It is to be noted that researchers have already found that high-intensity radio frequencies can cause tissue heating. However, this research was conducted in a controlled environment to rule out temperature-induced effects. The conclusion: if there is no heating, there is no harm. The study challenges the claim that 5G exposure might cause non-thermal biological effects. 'Our data casts fundamental doubt on the existence of non-thermal biological effects from 5G exposure,' noted the research paper.With this study, the researchers hope to 'close this debate' with hard evidence and help the public better understand how electromagnetic radiation works within safe parameters. However the broader concerns about screens and wireless devices still remain, as these can impact mental and physical well-being in more subtle ways.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


News18
08-06-2025
- News18
Debunking Myths About Smartphones and Brain Tumors
Last Updated: While concerns persist, experts affirm that mobile phones emit non-ionizing radiation at safe levels, with no conclusive evidence linking them to serious health risks like cancer. Many people recognize the personal benefits of mobile services, though the public may also express concerns about possible risks from the radio signals used by mobile devices. Research across several countries indicates that a significant percentage of the population has a limited understanding of how mobile phones operate and how levels of radio signals are regulated and controlled. Some individuals may have encountered claims suggesting potential risks from long-term mobile phone use or that certain people are more sensitive to radio signals. Mobile phone users may attribute certain symptoms to their phone usage. Parents, while acknowledging the personal safety benefits mobile phones offer their children, may simultaneously worry about possible health risks. Dr. Rvaikanth Vuppu, Consultant – Neuro and Spine Surgeon, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, shares all you need to know: A mobile phone is a low-power radio transmitter that, under good network coverage, operates at levels similar to those of a cordless home phone. Mobile phones are tested for compliance at maximum power, and international exposure guidelines are designed to be protective of all individuals. If users remain concerned, they can reduce their exposure by using a hands-free kit or limiting the duration of calls. Cancer is another health concern often raised in the context of 5G deployment, both by the public and researchers. Numerous studies have examined the effects of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) on humans, with mixed results. In 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO)/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified RF electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an observed increased risk for glioma — a malignant form of brain cancer — linked to wireless phone use. For example, Carlberg and Hardell (2017) concluded that RF radiation should be considered a human carcinogen due to its potential to cause glioma. In contrast, Vila et al. (2018) found no clear association between RF or intermediate frequency (IF) EMF exposure and glioma or meningioma. These contradictory findings underscore the need for further research to assess whether 5G could contribute to cancer development. Concerns about 5G and DNA damage stem from misunderstandings about radiation. For many people, the term 'radiation" evokes alarming associations with nuclear disasters or cancer. However, only higher-frequency radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV), X-rays, and gamma rays, is ionizing — meaning it can break molecular bonds and damage DNA. The radio waves used in 5G technology are non-ionizing and lack the energy to cause such damage. The non-ionizing nature of 5G means it cannot physically cause cancer in the same way ionizing radiation might. This distinction is critical: while 5G uses radiofrequency radiation, it operates at power levels far below those capable of harming biological tissue or altering DNA. Regarding the IARC classification: On May 31, 2011, radiofrequency electromagnetic fields were classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on limited evidence of increased risk for glioma and acoustic schwannoma, both associated with long-term wireless phone use. However, for other types of cancer and environmental or occupational exposures, the evidence was deemed inadequate. The IARC summary notes indications of increased glioma risk among individuals in the highest 10% of cumulative phone use. However, researchers did not observe a consistent trend of increasing risk with greater duration of use. The conclusions were tempered by potential biases and errors, which limit the strength of the findings and preclude a definitive causal interpretation. In response, many health authorities have emphasized the need for further research while reaffirming that individuals can take practical steps to reduce mobile phone exposure. Importantly, the WHO continues to support the adoption of international RF-EMF exposure limits as a precautionary measure. First Published:


Time of India
04-06-2025
- Time of India
Artemis Hospitals, Medulance launch 5G-connected ambulance in Gurugram
NEW DELHI: Artemis Hospitals on Wednesday partnered with the emergency ambulance care provider, Medulance , to launch a 5G-connected ambulance in Gurugram. Artemis and Medulance, in a joint statement, said the ambulance will enhance emergency care , especially in cases like heart attacks, strokes, or traumas, by harnessing the strengths of fifth-generation ( 5G ) connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven diagnostics, and real-time telemedicine. With 5G, important vitals such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure can be sent from the ambulance to the hospital instantly, allowing for quick and informed care. The ambulance with 5G and AI keeps an eye on and analyses patient data in real time. AI finds patterns and informs paramedics about important changes so they can act quickly. This smart integration turns the ambulance into a ' mobile emergency room (ER)," which means that decisions can be made and life-saving actions can be taken on the go before the patient reaches the hospital. Citing research, the companies said that in India, an estimated 24,012 people die daily due to delays in receiving medical assistance. A study by AIIMS and ICMR earlier found that only 10.8% of patients reached appropriate health facilities within the critical first hour of symptom onset. 'This initiative will set a new benchmark for emergency care in India, ensuring that every patient receives timely and accurate care, no matter where they are. In a country where millions of lives are lost due to delays in medical treatment, this technology is a game-changer,' said Devlina Chakravarty, MD, Artemis Hospitals. 'This initiative represents a leap forward in emergency medical response. By integrating the speed and reliability of 5G, we're able to provide real-time, data-driven medical assistance, drastically improving patient outcomes,' said Vishal Arora, chief of business transformation & operational excellence, Artemis Hospitals. 'Medulance is proud to partner with Artemis Hospital to launch a 5G-enabled advanced ambulance, marking a milestone in our shared commitment to transforming emergency healthcare in India,' said Pranav Bajaj , co-founder & CEO, MedulanceHealthcare.


Time of India
31-05-2025
- Time of India
Is Calgary's tap water safe again? Why a controversial mineral is making a splash again
After over a decade without fluoride in its drinking water, Calgary is set to reintroduce the mineral into its municipal supply beginning June 30, 2025. This follows a 2021 plebiscite in which 62 per cent of Calgarians voted in favour of resuming fluoridation to support better dental health outcomes. Calgary stopped fluoridating its water in 2011, citing aging equipment and concerns over cost. However, since then, health professionals have noted a rise in tooth decay, especially among children. Studies suggested that Calgary residents, particularly lower-income groups, were facing worsening dental health outcomes. In response to the growing evidence and public demand, city officials put the matter to a vote in 2021, resulting in a clear mandate to bring fluoride back. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Melhore a performance da sua frota [Clique] Sistema TMS embarcador Saiba Mais Undo How will it be implemented? After extensive retrofitting and construction, fluoride will be added at two upgraded water treatment plants, Glenmore and Bearspaw. The reintroduction project cost the city $28.1 million, and the anticipated annual maintenance cost is around $1 million. Live Events The city aims to maintain fluoride levels at 0.7 milligrams per litre, the standard recommended by Health Canada to prevent tooth decay. Given the natural fluctuations in fluoride content in the Bow and Elbow rivers, water quality will be closely monitored and adjusted accordingly. Broader health and regional impact Alberta Health Services , the Canadian Dental Association, and the World Health Organization endorse fluoridation as a safe, effective public health measure. It will also impact surrounding communities like Chestermere, which rely on Calgary's water supply. This decision aligns Calgary with other Alberta cities such as Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Red Deer, which have continued fluoridation without interruption. In contrast, two weeks ago, Florida became the second state in the US, after Utah, to ban fluoride in public drinking water. It stated that adding forced fluoride into the water supply is forced medication on people. Social media's support, skepticism, and satire The reintroduction has sparked a flurry of social media commentary, with reactions ranging from cautious approval to deep skepticism. Some residents welcomed the move, saying Calgary's water quality has long needed improvement. Others, however, expressed concern over perceived health risks. Several users referred to fluoride as a 'neurotoxin' and shared videos urging people to invest in home filtration systems. One user quipped, 'Time to invest in water filtration stocks in Alberta,' another warned of 'random poisoning' and advised switching to healthy water or filters with UV attachments. Conspiratorial tones also emerged, with claims about fluoride affecting the pineal gland and interacting with 5G frequencies. Still, a few commentators simply saw it as a practical decision overdue for a growing city. What comes next? City officials say residents won't notice any difference in taste or smell, but long-term oral health outcomes are expected to improve. As the system is phased in, regular updates will be provided through Calgary's official channels.