As the telecommunication sector revolutionizes rapidly, the time is fast approaching when 6G technology will become prevalent. Though 6G is set to transform the world of connectivity, the increased use of radio-frequency fields adversely affects human health.
But what is the 6G network, and how will it impact humanity's future?
Below we'll discuss the basics of 6G technology, including how it works. We will also take a closer look at the potential health risks of this revolutionary network.
What Is 6G Technology?
6G is the sixth-generation cellular technology that surpasses 5G and represents a shift in the global community. It's under development by technological firms worldwide and is significantly faster than its predecessor.
People believe that 6G technology will allow mobile devices to support seemingly impossible tasks, such as augmented reality, eHealth, industry 4.0, and autonomous transportation.
How Does It Work?
Just as the jump from 4G to 5G represents a significant increase in data transfer speed, the 6G wireless network will likely work 100 times faster. Whereas 5G relies on mmWave in the microwave frequency to transmit data, 6G will leverage even smaller wavelengths at the Terahertz (THz) band.
6G falls between the 100 GHz to 3THz band, enabling it to transmit data at extreme speeds of 95 Gbps to 1 Tbps! Another excellent way to determine 6G's data transmission speed is by identifying its latency. Generally, the lower the latency, the faster speed you can enjoy.
It's expected that 6G networks will take up to 1 millisecond to transmit data, a significant reduction from the five milliseconds required by 5G. As a result, 6G can revolutionize the scope of wireless technology with unique applications.
Radio-frequency and Health- Health Effects of Cellular Networks
Like most modern technologies, 6G uses radio-frequency electromagnetic energy to transfer data. RF emissions can cause biological impacts, referred to as "thermal" effects.
Exposure to high radio-frequency intensities can lead to the heating of biological tissues, which raises your body's temperature. High RF levels can result in tissue damage due to the body's inability to dissipate the excessive heat generated.
Two areas of the body are particularly susceptible to tissue damage and biological heating: the eyes and the genitals. The primary reason behind their vulnerability is the relatively low blood flow, which makes it challenging for the body parts to cope.
On the contrary, research on the impacts of low levels of radio-frequency radiation is ambiguous and requires further studies. These are known as "non-thermal" effects, including cognitive impairment and brain tumors.
5G Frequency- Are Past Technologies Harmful?
Similar to how 6G faces controversies, 5G technology also experienced resistance from anti-5G campaigns. The primary reason behind the growing public concerns was RF radiation's biological effects and carcinogenic risks.
Since 5G falls within the microwave band, it causes tissue heating in our bodies. But multiple studies show that the degree and effects of temperature rise vary in adults and children. In fact, research reveals that people experience increased EMF-related tissue heating with age.
Another study notes that children notice a significant increase in brain temperature, whereas adults experience higher skin temperature. In addition, the higher the exposure to cellular networks, the greater the EMF absorption and rise in tissue heating.
Aside from these, many studies claim a link between long-term exposure to RF radiation and cancers. But the evidence is understudied and requires more research.
6G Technology- What Are the Potential Health Risks?
Multiple studies show that radio-frequency and millimeter waves emitted by 5G wireless technology significantly impact our health. Since 6G involves shorter RF waves and is faster, its adverse effects will likely intensify. Many researchers today are studying the potential health risks of 6G. However, the information is limited.
An insightful study investigating the effects of terahertz (THz) radiation on tissues and cells of artificial human skin and mice found that it resulted in DNA breakage, cell death, and cell membrane modification. Besides, it disrupted nerve cell growth, cell-signaling pathways, and acute inflammation.
Another study reports that 5G and 6G microwaves induce colicin synthesis and prophage induction. According to the research, these behaviors indicate substantial DNA damage. Moreover, an article in the Journal of the Royal Society highlights that radiofrequency radiation can interfere with DNA and genomic instabilities.
Besides this, many animal toxicology studies reveal that RFR can increase oxidative stress and free radicals. The investigations show that exposure to radiofrequency radiation leads to chromosomal damage and increased cancer risk. Furthermore, research shows that children are more susceptible to DNA damage than adults.
Lastly, an in-depth research comprising 2100 men scientists found that exposure to RF radiation by phones in trouser pockets can significantly lower sperm count and impair sperm motility. Although more research is necessary to draw an unambiguous conclusion about how terahertz radiation affects our health, the preliminary studies warrant concern and urgent actions.
Learn More: SleepGift Infrared Health Pad is ideal for those frequently using laptops. With patented fabric emitting Far-Infrared Rays (FIR) and bioceramic beads, this proprietary pad absorbs electromagnetic radiation from electronic devices to boost your physical health. With SleepGift EMF Shielding Boxer, you can protect your reproductive organs and improve sperm count.
How Can You Minimize the Impact of the Upcoming 6G?
Fortunately, you can do numerous simple things to reduce the impacts of radio-frequency radiations from 6G devices. Here are several ways to get you started:
- Identify 6G sources, such as cell phones, and decrease your exposure by keeping it away from your body.
- Turn off your mobile phone or put it on airplane mode when not in use.
- Prefer corded technology over wireless connections. Or invest in a landline phone.
- Remove electronic devices from the bedroom, including phones, TV, and gaming systems.
- Invest in an EMF Protection Blanket to safeguard your sleep. Embedded with silver fabric, this anti-bacterial and anti-viral blanket protects you from stressors.
The Bottom Line
Understanding how 6G and its preceding technology affect the human body is crucial to minimizing the body's exposure to radio-frequency radiations. RFR emissions from 5G and 6G can result in tissue heating and fertility issues.
It can lead to DNA breakage, cell membrane modification, acute inflammation, lower sperm count, and decreased sperm motility. Fortunately, individuals can adopt measures to limit radiofrequency radiation exposure, such as restricting the use of cordless cell phones and using an EMF Protection Blanket.
References:
Cellular effects of terahertz waves
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2019.00223/full
Cell phone use may reduce male fertility
Age-dependence of electromagnetic power and heat deposition in near-surface tissues
