However, available scientific evidence suggests that under normal exposure conditions, living near a telecommunication tower does not mean people are exposed to dangerous levels of radiation.
Radiofrequency waves are a form of non-ionising radiation. Unlike ionising radiation such as X-rays, they do not have enough energy to directly damage DNA.
According to the World Health Organization, the main known health effect of exposure to very high levels of radiofrequency radiation is the heating of body tissue. However, exposure levels in areas accessible to the public near telecommunication towers are generally well below safety limits.
Does Living Near a Tower Increase Cancer Risk?
There is currently no clear evidence that radiofrequency waves from telecommunication towers increase the risk of cancer.
The American Cancer Society says evidence linking living or working near telecommunication towers with cancer remains limited, although more research is needed.
Studies examining exposure to radiofrequency waves from mobile phones and towers have also not established a clear link with cancer.
The World Health Organization has similarly said that studies investigating radiofrequency transmitters have not provided evidence of an increased cancer risk caused by exposure.
Distance From the Tower Matters
Radiofrequency waves from antennas generally travel outward, and their energy decreases rapidly as the distance from the antenna increases.
This means exposure levels at ground level near most telecommunication towers are usually far below established safety limits.
The location, height and direction of antennas, as well as their transmission power, can all affect exposure levels.
Therefore, simply having a telecommunication tower near your home does not automatically mean you are being exposed to high levels of radiofrequency radiation.
What About 5G?
The basic situation is similar with 5G networks.
According to the World Health Organization, exposure levels from 5G infrastructure at frequencies currently being used are similar to those from existing telecommunication infrastructure.
Researchers are continuing to study the possible long-term effects of radiofrequency exposure. For now, available evidence does not show that normal exposure from mobile towers poses a proven health risk.
