What you may have heard
You might have heard that 5G technology can cause cancer because it uses higher frequency waves than older mobile networks.
What the science tells us
Epidemiological Evidence
Many studies have looked into whether cell phones, including 5G, cause cancer. So far, most studies have not found a clear link between using mobile phones and getting cancer.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says studies showing changes in the body from radiofrequency (RF) radiation have not been consistent. Most epidemiological studies do not show a link between this radiation and health problems. The FDA believes current safety limits for cell phones protect public health.
Laboratory Evidence/Supporting Evidence
Lab tests on the type of radiation used by 5G, RF radiation, have not shown it can damage DNA or cause cancer. This type of radiation is much weaker than the type of radiations used in X-rays.
RF radiation mostly just heats up tissues a little bit, but this isn’t enough to cause cancer. Scientists are still studying the long-term effects, but so far, there’s no strong evidence that 5G causes cancer.
IARC Classification:
RF radiation is Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic).
Other groups, like the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), say there’s no definite proof that cell phone use causes cancer.
How to reduce your risk
While the evidence doesn’t show that 5G causes cancer, you can still take some simple steps to reduce your exposure to RF radiation:
- Use speaker mode or a headset to keep the phone away from your head.
- Limit how long you talk on the phone.
- Text instead of calling when you can.
- Avoid using your phone when the signal is weak because it works harder and emits more radiation.
Bottom line
Right now, there’s no strong evidence that 5G technology increases the risk of cancer, but scientists are still researching it. It’s always a good idea to use your phone sensibly and keep up with new findings.