As a cell phone safety activist, I am deeply concerned about the rollout of 5G wireless technology and the potential health effects it may have on our communities. The build-out of this new generation of wireless networks will require an estimated 800,000 new base stations, including both towers and densely spaced “small cell” transmitters mounted on rooftops and street poles. This means nearly tripling the current number of transmitters and many of them will be placed close to houses and apartments.

The story of Pittsfield, Massachusetts serves as a prime example of the growing concern over 5G wireless technology and its potential health effects. In August 2020, a new cellphone tower was activated in the town, and within weeks, 17 residents reported a variety of health complaints, including headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and confusion. Some children were even forced to sleep with “vomit buckets” by their beds.

Bobbie Orsi, a registered nurse and the chair of Pittsfield’s Board of Health, decided to investigate the matter further. After combing through a stack of research studies, watching webinars, and consulting with a dozen scientists and doctors, Orsi became convinced that radio-frequency emissions from Verizon’s 115-foot 4G tower were to blame for the health problems in Pittsfield.

Unfortunately, Orsi and the Pittsfield board soon discovered that they would get no help from federal regulators. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is responsible for protecting Americans from potential radiation hazards, has repeatedly sided with the telecommunications industry in denying the possibility of virtually any human harm. Furthermore, federal law and FCC rules are so aligned with the industry that state and local governments are barred from taking action to block cell towers to protect the health of their citizens. This means that companies like Verizon have more legal rights than the citizens of Pittsfield.

The growing concern over 5G wireless technology is not limited to Pittsfield, however. Studies have found that exposure to wireless radiation can cause behavioral disorders in children, and can also affect fetal development and memory function. The American Academy of Pediatrics has urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to take measures to protect children from wireless radiation, as their thinner skulls make them more vulnerable to its effects.

Wireless radiation has also been linked to an array of cancers, including brain tumors. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an arm of the World Health Organization, classified wireless radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” in 2011. However, the FCC and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claim that there is no special health risk to children and do not counsel people to limit their exposure.

The bottom line is that while the rollout of 5G wireless technology may bring many benefits, it is essential that we also consider the potential health effects and take appropriate precautions. As concerned citizens, it is our responsibility to stay informed and to advocate for our right to a safe and healthy environment. We must demand that the FCC and other regulatory bodies take the necessary steps to protect our communities from the potential health risks of wireless radiation. It’s time for the government to take action to protect our health and well-being, rather than bowing to the interests of the telecommunications industry.

 

“5G Wireless Technology: Understanding the Health Risks”

“The Truth About 5G and Wireless Radiation: What You Need to Know”

“Pittsfield, MA: A Town’s Struggle with 5G Health Concerns”

“The FCC and 5G: Are We Being Protected from Radiation Hazards?”

“5G Rollout: Balancing Progress and Public Health”

“The FCC may say #5G is safe, but a growing body of research suggests otherwise. Learn more about the potential health risks:

“In Pittsfield, MA, residents are reporting health problems after a new #5G tower was activated. Is this a sign of things to come?

“Protecting children from #wirelessradiation should be a top priority. Learn why the American Academy of Pediatrics is urging the FCC to take action:

“The #5G rollout may bring benefits, but we must also consider the potential health effects. Stay informed and advocate for a safe environment:

“Wireless radiation has been linked to cancer, behavioral disorders, and fertility issues. Is the industry’s resistance to regulation putting our health at risk?