2 Sixth Street, Linden, Johannesburg
A study published in Physics in Medicine & Biology used 550 computer simulations to compare how children and adults absorb radiofrequency (RF) radiation across 15 frequencies, ranging from 450 MHz to 26 GHz, covering frequencies used in current 5G and considered for future 6G technologies.
Key findings:
- Higher absorption in children: Child body models showed 1.5–1.9 times higher whole-body RF radiation absorption rates than adult models at frequencies below 6 GHz.
- Differences in children’s bodies: Children’s smaller heads, thinner skulls and higher brain water content may influence how RF energy is absorbed in the head and brain.
- Concerns about safety standards: Critics argue that existing wireless radiation exposure limits focus primarily on preventing excessive tissue heating and may not adequately address all potential long-term health effects.
- Calls for greater protection: Some scientists and health advocacy organisations have called for updated exposure guidelines and additional safeguards for children.
Important distinction: The study examined radiation absorption through computer simulations; it did not establish that the measured differences cause brain damage, cancer or other illnesses. Higher absorption does not, on its own, demonstrate harm. The health implications of long-term exposure to wireless radiation remain an area of scientific research.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that children’s bodies interact with wireless RF radiation differently from adults’ bodies, supporting the need for continued research into age-specific exposure and appropriate safety standards.
