Journal Article

Assessment of Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field Radiation within the Vicinity of Some Selected Mobile Phone Towers in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Rapid growth in mobile communication technology in Abuja has led to numerous base stations, causing electromagnetic pollution in residential, school, and market areas, resulting in environmental and human health concerns worldwide. This research examined the effects of radio-frequency (RF) radiation emitted from cellular base stations on the biological systems of the human body. The power densities were calculated in close proximity to cellular mobile base stations. The research findings show that maximum power density of 133.3 nW/m2 and 432.3 nW/m2 and 491.70 nW/m2 was recorded at 0.0 m for Residential Areas, Market Places and School Premises, respectively, while the minimum power density of 9.6 nW/m2 , 10.09 nW/m2 and 7.57 nW/m2 was recorded at 145 m radial distance in Base Transceiver Station for Residential Areas, Market Places and School Premises, respectively. Therefore, the Radio frequency exposure hazard index in all the locations was significantly below the permitted RF exposure limit of 4.5 W/m2 to 9.0 W/m2 to the general public as recommended by International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICRNIP). Therefore, people living within the School premises absorb large percent of the radiofrequency radiation which could be as a result of the large number of clustered GSM masts. Comparing the calculated values of Power Density with ICRNIP, and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) exposure limits, an idea for the compliance distance where the radiation level is safe for public exposures was estimated.

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