For years, conspiracy theories have circulated claiming that 5G technology could be harmful to birds and, by extension, dangerous for humans as well. But a recent scientific study has delivered a definitive answer.
According to new research, "5G-exposed human skin cells do not respond with altered gene expression and methylation profiles." In short, 5G signals do not pose a threat to human health.
Scientists at Germany's Constructor University directly exposed human skin cells to high-intensity 5G electromagnetic waves. The results, published in PNAS Nexus, were reassuring and mark a significant milestone in the ongoing public debate around 5G technology.
To study the impact of 5G, researchers used two types of human skin cells—fibroblasts and keratinocytes. These cells were exposed to frequencies of 27 GHz and 40.5 GHz, representing the higher spectrum of 5G signals. These millimetre-wave bands are expected to become more commonly used as 5G networks evolve.
According to the findings, "even under worst-case conditions, no significant changes in gene expression or methylation patterns are observed after exposure."
The researchers aimed to simulate the most intense exposure conditions. "We wanted to simulate worst-case exposure conditions," they explained. To this end, they applied electromagnetic fields significantly more powerful than those allowed by international safety regulations. Exposure durations ranged from two to 48 hours, covering both short-term and long-term effects.
The study revealed that there were no detectable alterations in gene expression or DNA methylation—both key indicators of cell health and integrity. Frequencies up to 3 GHz can penetrate about 10 millimetres into the skin, whereas those at or above 10 GHz barely go beyond 1 millimetre. This suggests that significant biological interaction at deeper levels is highly improbable.
Researchers acknowledge that high-intensity radio waves can heat tissue. However, this study was designed to eliminate temperature-induced effects. The bottom line: if there is no heating, there is no harm. The paper also notes, "Our data casts fundamental doubt on the existence of non-thermal biological effects from 5G exposure."
With these findings, the researchers hope to "close this debate" and educate the public about how 5G electromagnetic radiation operates within safe limits. While the concerns over excessive screen time and mental well-being remain valid, the specific fear that 5G waves directly harm human health has been scientifically debunked.
The recent research by Germany’s Constructor University offers a scientifically grounded answer to a longstanding concern surrounding 5G technology. By simulating extreme exposure conditions and directly testing human skin cells, scientists found no significant changes in gene expression or DNA methylation, both of which are critical indicators of cellular health.
This study, published in PNAS Nexus, suggests that even at high frequencies and exposure levels far above international safety limits, 5G waves do not induce harmful biological effects—thermal or non-thermal. While previous fears were largely based on theoretical risks and anecdotal reports, this rigorous laboratory experiment provides robust data to debunk such myths.
It effectively challenges conspiracy theories linking 5G to adverse health impacts in humans or animals. That said, the study does emphasize the importance of continued research and public education on electromagnetic exposure. It also encourages balanced awareness of broader digital health concerns like screen time and device addiction.