5G : new 3.5 GHz and 26 GHz bands to allow higher speeds and communications between more connected objects
The major difference displayed between 5G and previous generation mobile networks is the much larger amount of data that should be able to be exchanged without network congestion. This new technology aims to promote the development of innovative services and new uses, both for individuals and businesses in multiple fields: virtual reality, transport, urban connections, industry, telemedicine, online education.
Beyond the exploitation of frequency bands already used by other mobile technologies, 5G now uses the 3.5 GHz band for coverage in large geographic areas, allocated to the four mobile operators at the end of 2020. The 26 GHz band will complete the network within a few years, particularly for communication between connected objects.
Deployment of 5G in the 700 MHz-2.1 GHz frequency band largely covered by previous ANSES expert appraisals
To date, operators have mainly deployed 5G in the band 700 MHz – 2,1 GHz. This band includes frequencies used for several years by the current generations of mobile communication, 2G, 3G and 4G.
Previous work carried out by ANSES on the effects linked to exposure to electromagnetic waves in the radiofrequency range indicates that there is currently no proof of health effects linked to exposure to sources of electromagnetic fields corresponding to common digital uses. Examination of possible effects, such as the development of cancer, impaired brain function or fertility, however, continues to be the subject of research and evaluation.
For exposure levels, studies conducted internationally and by theNational Frequency Agency (ANFR), show that they vary little with antennas emitting 3G, 4G or 5G signals.
Deployment of 5G in the 3.5 GHz band: new health risks unlikely
The 5G mobile phone network in the frequency band around 3.5 GHz is open commercially recently In France. The resulting exposure to electromagnetic fields today is not representative of what it will be in the future.
Due to the lack of scientific data concerning possible effects at this frequency, the‘ANSES has carried out additional investigations to identify whether exposure to different frequencies of electromagnetic radiation causes the appearance of different biological effects or modulates their intensity. Rigorous extrapolation of the results of scientific studies carried out at different frequencies to draw conclusions on possible effects in the frequency band around 3.5 GHz was not considered feasible by the experts.
Furthermore, the available data relating to exposure, in particular abroad and in the studies carried out by the ANFR in connection with the experiments, do not suggest, in the current state of knowledge, a significant increase in the exposure of the population.
In view of these elements, the Agency considers it unlikely that the deployment of 5G in the frequency band around 3.5 GHz currently constitutes new health risks.
Exposure to the frequency band around 26 GHz: exposures concerning the superficial layers of the body and of a probably low level, but insufficient data to conclude on the existence or not of a health risk
The deployment of 5G applications in the frequency band around 26 GHz still being at the project stageno exposure data is currently available.
ANSES considered a wider frequency band, from 18 to 100 GHz, for which the depth of wave penetration is similar, to research the possible health effects described in the available scientific literature. This mainly studied the effects on the skin, the eye, the membranes, the central nervous system and the cells from various human or animal tissues (skin, neurons, cornea, etc.).
ANSES sought to assess probable exposure in the 26 GHz band: it differs from other frequency bands by a depth of penetration of the waves in the body much weaker, of the order of the millimeter, exposing superficial layers of the skin or eye. The simulations available suggest low exposure levels.
However, at present, the data are not sufficient to conclude on the existence or not of health effects related to exposure to electromagnetic fields in the 26 GHz band.
A need to continue producing new data and knowledge
As knowledge of the links between exposure and health effects needs to be strengthened, ANSES stresses the need for further research. Indeed, the Agency’s experts recommend characterizing exposures and improving knowledge of the links between exposures and biological or health effects for new frequencies, including experimental studies. Work on 5G has led to the identification of the need to take into account new points of attention (eg the intermittency of signals or the exposure of surface layers for the 26 GHz band). It will also be particularly important to monitor the evolution of exposure as the number of antennas grows and the use of networks increases. In view of the results provided by the studies or research work, ANSES may change its opinion or engage in new expert appraisals.
Public consultation of the Agency’s work until June 1, 2021
In view of the societal interest in the subject and the possible rapid emergence of new data in connection with the current deployment of 5G, the Agency is launching a public consultation on April 20, 2021 in order to collect any comments from the scientific community. and interested stakeholders. A completed report and opinion, if any, will be published after taking into account the comments received during this consultation, which begins today for a period of 6 weeks.