Potential Health Implications of Fifth Generation (5G) Wireless Communication Technology

Background: The implementation of global 5G wireless technology, having revolutionized telecommunications, has led to greatly increased speed and connectivity; however, there are concerns of potential health risks associated with exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF), particularly at the new 5G frequencies (3.5–100 GHz). This has caused much discussion globally. One can see the focus on concerns regarding some public issues and also scientific concerns, which cover thermal and non-thermal effects, carcinogenicity, and other potential impacts on neurological, reproductive, and immunological systems.Objective: To identify the research gaps around the potential health effects of 5G technology, the peer-reviewed literature was reviewed.Methods: A systematic review of literature was undertaken from the years 2010-2024, using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Search terms for the search included and were limited to “5G technology,” “RF-EMF,” and “health effects.” The studies reviewed evaluated health effects, were performed using human or animal models, and focused on targets related to 5G-specific frequencies. Review articles that were non-peer-reviewed were excluded from the review. A thematic analysis was conducted, with specific attention to biological and epidemiological findings.Results: Thermal effects of 5G are minimal and within safety margins, and they impact skin primarily. Non-thermal effects, such as oxidative stress, have inconsistent in vitro and in vivo findings. Epidemiological data on carcinogenicity are limited, with very few 5G-specific studies. Some reproductive and neurological impacts suggest a possibility of risk; however, the available data are not sufficient to reach a conclusion. Regulatory guidelines consider thermal impacts but may not stipulate exposure through similar non-thermal mechanisms. Conclusions: Although 5G appears to be safe within the parameters of regulatory guidelines, other consequences of 5G exposure in the long term and potential non-thermal exposure effects remain uncertain. Standard dosimetry and longitudinal studies are necessary to establish a course of research for public health risks, if any, from 5G.