Radio waves

Radio frequency waves are emitted by telecommunications base stations, wireless networks and equipment such as mobile phones and laptops.

Evidence summary of health risks

Research has been carried out by The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to look at the impact of radio waves on health. It has been stated that radio waves are ‘possibly carcinogenic’ (possible cause of cancer).  This does not mean that there is a definite direct link between radio waves from mobile phones and cancer; rather, that the evidence from studies that examined whether radio waves can cause cancer in humans was considered limited. The evidence from experimental studies involving exposed animals was also considered limited. Other examples of chemicals or substances that are considered possibly carcinogenic include eating pickled vegetables (Asian-type) or using talc-based body powder. 

Sometimes, people are concerned about exposures and impacts, but radio wave exposures and risks are assessed against agreed health-based standards which have been set to protect individual and population health. According to Public Health England, the UK expert advisors on radiation, public exposure to radio waves from 2G, 3G and 4G technology mobile telecommunications base stations is well within the guideline levels set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).  These guidelines are internationally accepted and used in many countries including the UK. The recent roll-out of 5G technology across the UK may possibly lead to an increase in overall exposure to radio waves. However, it is not expected that exposure will exceed the health-based guidelines.

Similarly, Wi-Fi technology – as used in wireless local area networks where devices and computers communicate through radio waves instead of connecting cables – is not expected to negatively affect the health of the general population. The signals are very low power in Wi-Fi network computers and routers and exposure levels are lower than those from mobile phones held to the head during calls. Research shows that an individual’s exposure to radio waves from Wi-Fi will also be well within the ICNIRP internationally-accepted guidelines. As such, there is no reason why Wi-Fi should not be used in schools and in other public places.

Advice for the public

Based on the evidence and expert advice, members of the public do not need to take any special steps to reduce exposure to the low levels of radio waves from Wi-Fi networks and equipment (e.g. as used in public settings), smart meters or mobile phone base stations. However, it is recommended to avoid non-essential use of mobile phones for voice calls amongst children; this is because exposures are higher when mobile phones are held to the head to make voice calls, though this is still within guideline levels.

Our role

Public Health Wales is advised by Public Health England on radiation-related matters. Public Health England continues to keep the scientific evidence in this field under review.