There are no 5G theories which say 5G will make money turn purple, or break refrigerators. None claim it will cause pregnancy, earthquakes, bananas to taste like oranges, or people to laugh uncontrollably at the sight of mushrooms. The point: there seems to be almost always at least some kernel of truth to any lasting theory. With that as a working model, this article will explore some of those kernels with regard to 5G and people’s concerns. This does not mean that any full 5G theory should be accepted as true without further evidence, but it does seem to explain why these debates rage on.
Now, let’s explore the wild world of a few 5G theories.
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Claim: 5G Causes Cancer
Party Line: The prevailing scientific consensus is that 5G, as a form of non-ionizing radiation, is unlikely to cause cancer because it does not have enough energy to damage DNA.
Research Says…
1) Non-ionizing radiation known to cause cancer includes ultraviolet (UV) radiation. According to the American Cancer Society, too much UV radiation can cause skin burns, premature aging of the skin, eye damage, and skin cancer[2]. While non-ionizing radiation does not have enough energy to directly damage DNA, evidence suggests that it can cause cancer by interfering with oxidative repair mechanisms, leading to oxidative stress and damage to cellular components, including DNA[5].
2) The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified all radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2B), based on an increased risk for glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use[3].
Summary
It seems reasonable to limit exposure and even to do testing where you get away from all cell phones, towers and WiFi for several weeks to months to see if any mysterious health problems improve.
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[1] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html
[3] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/radiation-exposure/radiofrequency-radiation.html
[4] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/radiation-exposure/extremely-low-frequency-radiation.html
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27903411/
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Claim: 5G is the Cause for COVID-19 Symptoms
Party Line: The scientific community widely agrees that COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with no connection to 5G technology. However, some have speculated that 5G could have indirect effects on viral transmission or susceptibility by impacting human health or behavior. These claims lack empirical support and are contradicted by the global spread of COVID-19 in areas without 5G coverage.
Research Says…
1) Some studies have reported that exposure to radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) can lead to increased oxidative stress and damage to cellular components. For instance, exposure to RF-EMF has been shown to increase lipid peroxidation, elevate oxidative DNA and protein products, and reduce the activity of antioxidative markers in animal and cell studies[1][2]. This increased oxidative stress is linked to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to cellular or systemic oxidative stress and influence various diseases. Oxidative stress caused by RF exposure has been implicated in a wide range of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders[3][5]. The generation of ROS can cause damage to DNA, proteins, and membrane lipids, leading to various health implications[5]. Therefore, the evidence suggests that RF exposure can interfere with oxidative repair mechanisms, leading to oxidative stress and damage to cellular components.
2) COVID-19 can also cause oxidative stress and damage to cellular components. Oxidative stress, defined by an imbalance between increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a low concentration of antioxidants, has been suggested to play an essential role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. The excessive production of ROS can damage cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids, leading to tissue and organ damage. This can result in endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, thrombosis, and ultimately tissue damage and end organ disease. Studies have shown that oxidative stress contributes to the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19 and long COVID, leading to implications for the benefit of high-dose intravenous vitamin C and the potential therapeutic use of natural antioxidants[6][7][8][9].
Summary
It seems not unreasonable to consider, given the research, that there could be overlap where both things could cause worsening symptoms. This should be studied carefully by anyone with the money to do it objectively, however, money is not freely given to researchers who might bite the hand that feeds them.
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[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8038719/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/
[3] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41573-021-00233-1
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0925443916302927
[5] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00204-023-03562-9
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10573237/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9100929/
[8] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.1111930/full
[9] https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2021.654813/full
[10] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12031-022-02004-y
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Claim: 5G Weakens the Immune System
Party Line: There is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim that 5G radiation can weaken the immune system. However, some researchers advocate for more comprehensive studies to explore the biological effects of long-term exposure to low-level electromagnetic fields, including any potential impacts on the immune system.
Research Says…
5G uses microwave radiation. Microwave radiation can weaken the immune system through both thermal and nonthermal effects. A study on the accumulative effects of multifrequency microwave exposure found that it can cause immune suppression by injuring the structures and functions of the immune system, decreasing the number of immune cells, and reducing cytokines and immunoglobulins in peripheral blood[1]. Additionally, microwave exposure has been shown to alter the mRNA and protein expression profiles in the spleen, disturb the immune balance in peripheral blood, and transiently upregulate cytokines associated with the proliferation and maturation of B lymphocytes[3]. Furthermore, microwave radiation can increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels inside tissues, leading to macromolecular changes and oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system[2]. These findings suggest that microwave radiation can have detrimental effects on the immune system through various mechanisms, including structural, functional, and molecular alterations.
Summary
The immune system is quite complicated and it can be both dumb and remarkably resilient and responsive. I would not rule out, based on the research, that this one could be true. Even more objective research could be conducted, showing immune system function marker with and without exposure to microwave radiation including cell phones, towers and WiFi, but would people listen? It seems not.
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[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10049199/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9409438/
[3] https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/11/23/3849
[4] https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA083993.pdf
[5] https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA076768.pdf
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Claim: 5G Kills Birds or Insects
Party Line: Studies have not found a link between radio wave emissions from cell towers and harm to birds or insects. However, some environmentalists argue that the potential ecological effects of increased electromagnetic radiation from 5G networks have not been sufficiently studied, and they call for more research into the potential impacts on wildlife and ecosystems.
Research Says…
Several studies have suggested that microwave radiation can have adverse effects on birds and insects. For example, a study on the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, demonstrated that microwave irradiation at 2.45 GHz caused genotoxicity and behavioral alterations, indicating non-thermal effects of the waves[1]. Another review of 113 studies found that radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) had a significant effect on birds, insects, and other organisms in 70% of the studies, with the development and reproduction of birds and insects being the most strongly affected endpoints[3]. Additionally, research has shown that low-level electromagnetic fields (EMF) can have adverse effects on insect species at very low intensity RFR exposures, potentially causing genotoxic effects and disruptions to their directional sense[2]. These findings suggest that there is evidence to support the idea that microwave radiation can be harmful to birds and insects.
Summary
It seems true, based on the research, that there is some damage to birds and insects. It is not unreasonable to consider the possibility that this damage is also reducing populations of different species, given adverse effects on reproduction.
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[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7564283/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9732734/
[3] https://ehtrust.org/science/bees-butterflies-wildlife-research-electromagnetic-fields-environment/
[4] https://educate-yourself.org/cn/microwaveskillinginsectsbirds20mar08.shtml
[5] https://ehtrust.org/biological-effects-of-electromagnetic-radiation-on-birds/
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Claim: COVID-19 is a cover to embed microchips within COVID-19 vaccine for controlling people via 5G
Party Line: The claim that microchips are being implanted via COVID-19 vaccines for control through 5G networks is not supported by any credible evidence. The logistics of such a scheme, including the size of the microchips and the need for a power source, make it implausible. However, concerns about privacy and the potential for increased surveillance capabilities with 5G technology are legitimate topics of discussion, particularly as they relate to data security and personal privacy.
Research Says…
The idea of an inject-able GPS tracker does not fit known data. The world’s smallest GPS tracking devices include the Micro Hornet GPS chip, which has dimensions of 10x10x5.8mm and weighs just 2.5 grams, making it the world’s smallest GPS chip[1]. Another example is the u-blox MIA-M10, which is a chip-sized, ready-to-use GNSS module that requires no external components and is roughly half the size of competing products, measuring 4.5 by 4.5 millimeters[3]. Additionally, “Tail it” offers the “world’s smallest GPS tracker,” which is very lightweight, weighing only 24 grams, and has a dimension of 35×41.5x10mm[4]. These devices are used for various purposes, including tracking children, pets, vehicles, and other valuables.
Mobile phones, on the other hand, have been used to track people with COVID-19. Governments and private sectors have increasingly relied on data-driven technologies, including mobile location data, to help contain the spread of the virus. This has been done through various methods such as contact tracing, Bluetooth technology, and analyzing aggregate location data to identify potential hotspots of transmission[6][7].
Summary
This one seems to be a straw man, an outlandish theory invented for the purpose of discrediting all others some of which might be more plausible. Could a trillion dollar communications industry have paid some advertising firm to make this one up? We would not be surprised. Nonetheless, there has been new real tracking via cell phones which started with COVID-19. This include device makers cooking alerts about outbreaks near your device into the operating systems, collecting and using where people have been and when. It’s a neat idea, if every human who has access to it never abuses the system.
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[1] https://www.timesofisrael.com/worlds-smallest-gps-chip-makes-wearables-more-wearable/
[2] https://youtube.com/watch?v=STfAhh6J4Os
[3] https://www.u-blox.com/en/u-blox-launches-worlds-smallest-GPS-module
[4] https://www.tailit.com/mini/
[5] https://www.airdroid.com/parent-control/smallest-gps-tracker/
[6] https://www.hrw.org/news/2020/05/13/mobile-location-data-and-covid-19-qa
[7] https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2020/08/17/covid-tracking-apps-cellphones/
[8] https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/19/technology/smartphone-location-tracking-opt-out.html
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7528106/
[10] https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2020/04/16/most-americans-dont-think-cellphone-tracking-will-help-limit-covid-19-are-divided-on-whether-its-acceptable/
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Claim: The 5G grid is part of a larger surveillance and artificial intelligence agenda
Party Line: While 5G itself is a communication technology that does not inherently include surveillance features, it can facilitate the transfer of large amounts of data at high speeds. Critics argue that this could potentially be exploited for surveillance purposes by governments or corporations, especially in the absence of strong privacy protections and regulations.
Research Says…
5G can improve surveillance when used with AI in several ways, including enhanced network security, predictive maintenance, and optimized network performance. AI and machine learning can be utilized to detect and prevent cyberattacks on the 5G network by analyzing network traffic and identifying security threats in real-time[1]. Additionally, AI algorithms can be employed to analyze data from network equipment, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime by detecting potential issues before they occur[1]. Furthermore, AI can optimize network performance by analyzing network usage patterns, traffic congestion, and performance issues, leading to faster speeds and a better user experience[1].
The combination of 5G and AI has the potential to revolutionize surveillance capabilities, allowing for the development of smart city systems, intelligent transportation, and enhanced public safety measures[1]. Moreover, 5G technology can enable the deployment of advanced surveillance cameras with features such as ultra-high-definition video streaming, real-time monitoring, and intelligent analytics for tasks like face detection and people counting[5].
Summary
Our dots on the big map will move more real time. Are revolutionized surveillance capabilities what we all wish for?
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[1] https://www.mpirical.com/blog/ai-and-5g-use-cases-how-ai-uplifts-5g-technology
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unseen-power-ai-how-wifi-5g-enable-surveillance-beyond-keith-brown-maore?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_more-articles_related-content-card
[3] https://youtube.com/watch?v=zvqrx_LyjXs
[4] https://fedscoop.com/machine-learning-and-ai-may-help-5g-cloud-providers-detect-sophisticated-attacks-nsa/
[5] https://www.milesight.com/security/product/5g-pro-bullet-plus
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Claim: 5G is a weapons system that governments and industries disguise as new technology
Party Line: The comparison of 5G to military-grade directed-energy weapons like the Active Denial System (ADS) is based on the use of radio waves in both technologies. However, the frequencies and power levels used in 5G are much lower and are considered safe for public exposure. Despite this, some continue to express concern about the potential for weaponization of 5G technology due to its ability to transmit at high frequencies.
Research says …
The use of 5G technology, with its high frequency and phased array systems for beamforming, has raised concerns about its potential use as a weapon to cause pain at a distance. However, several factors prevent 5G from being used as a weapon system for this purpose.
First, the 5G frequency bands, including the millimeter-wave bands, are regulated for communication purposes and are subject to strict emission limits to ensure safety and minimize potential health effects[4]. These limits are set to protect individuals from harmful exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and ensure that 5G technology is used safely. Luckily, the military power and corporations both do whatever the FCC says. Each FCC regulation is like an infinitely strong force field which is impossible to break, even by Superman.
Second, while phased array systems used in 5G technology can synthesize beams pointing toward different directions and reconfigure dynamically, they are designed and regulated for communication purposes. The beamforming in 5G systems is intended to improve communication quality and efficiency, not to cause harm. The technology is subject to regulatory requirements and standards that limit the power levels and exposure to EMF[4]. Once again, standards and regulations to the rescue. As we all know, things can only be used for their intended purpose, always and forever.
Third, research on the health effects of 5G frequencies, including millimeter waves, is ongoing. Current evidence does not support the claim that 5G technology can be used as a weapon to cause pain at a distance. Studies have focused on assessing the potential health impacts of 5G frequencies, and regulatory bodies continue to monitor and evaluate the safety of these technologies[4]. We are so lucky that those organizations have not been bought out in regulatory capture by the trillion dollar telecommunications industry.
The global telecommunications industry is indeed a trillion-dollar market. According to a report on the telecom services market, the global telecom services market size was estimated at USD 1.81 trillion in 2022 and is expected to reach around USD 2.65 trillion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.85%[6]. The report also highlights significant investments and spending in the telecommunications sector, including the transition to 5G and the expansion of high-speed internet access. Another source, the Global Telecom Outlook by PwC, projects that global data consumption over telecoms networks will nearly triple from 2022 to 2027, with telecommunications companies projected to invest US$342.1 billion in their networks in 2027 alone[7]. Additionally, the recent $1.2 trillion infrastructure package signed by President Biden includes historic funding for the telecom sector, with approximately $65 billion allocated for broadband infrastructure and affordability initiatives[8]. These sources collectively support the assertion that the telecommunications industry is a trillion-dollar market.
Summary
The regulatory framework, the intended use of 5G technology for communication, and ongoing research on its health effects all contribute to preventing 5G from being used as a weapon system to cause pain at a distance. The existing regulations and safety standards aim to ensure that 5G technology is deployed and used in a manner that protects public health and safety. Aren’t you glad?
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[1] https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9292/12/2/297
[2] https://blog.minicircuits.com/a-brief-overview-of-phased-array-systems/
[3] https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Distance-of-maximum-exposure-as-function-of-frequency-and-array-size-for-the-1-cm-2_fig2_306266058
[4] https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/eng-2022-0387/html
[5] https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/iel7/22/4359079/09830133.pdf
[6] https://www.precedenceresearch.com/telecom-services-market
[7] https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/industries/tmt/telecom-outlook-perspectives.html
[8] https://realeconomy.rsmus.com/bidens-1-trillion-infrastructure-package-and-the-telecom-sector/
[9] https://www.statista.com/topics/2665/telecommunications-services/
[10] https://consent.yahoo.com/v2/collectConsent
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Claim: Installing new 5G base stations over a given area may result in an uncontrollable increase of radiofrequency “pollution”:
Party Line: The deployment of more 5G base stations is intended to support higher data rates and a growing number of users, which can actually lead to reduced average electromagnetic field exposure due to network densification. However, some argue that the cumulative exposure from a denser network of base stations has not been adequately studied, and there is a call for more research to understand the potential health effects of increased exposure to radiofrequency radiation, even at lower levels.
Research Says…
Radiofrequency (RF) pollution is a form of electromagnetic interference caused by an excess of radio frequency signals in the air, which can lead to problems for radio and wireless technologies. This interference can cause transmission errors, reduced range, reduced data rates for wireless devices, and distortion of audio or video signals from broadcast sources[2]. While the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has set safety limits for human exposure to RF radiation and most environmental levels of RF energy encountered by the general public are typically far below these limits, there may be situations, particularly in workplace environments near high-powered RF sources, where the recommended limits for safe exposure could be exceeded[1]. Additionally, a pilot study on the long-term effects of RF electromagnetic radiation exposure on mice found that long-term exposure to 2.45 GHz RF radiation increased their locomotor activity and led to lower global DNA methylation, indicating the need for further research to understand the potential effects of RF radiation[3]. Therefore, RF pollution is a real problem that can have adverse effects on both technology and living organisms.
Summary
One population’s pollution is another company’s cash cow. Embrace the slow destruction of your biology and, who knows, you might get the chance to be converted to a super healthy happy long lived humanoid cyborg that never needs to write blog articles.
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[1] https://www.fcc.gov/engineering-technology/electromagnetic-compatibility-division/radio-frequency-safety/faq/rf-safety
[2] https://mra-raycom.com/top/rf-pollution/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9961585/
[4] https://www.bench.com/setting-the-benchmark/overcoming-rf-noise-pollution
[5] https://transition.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/Documents/bulletins/oet56/oet56e4.pdf
