Topline
Dutch authorities have warned that an array of necklaces, sleep masks and children’s bracelets that are being sold with the claim that they protect against supposed harmful effects of 5G cell networks are themselves dangerously radioactive.
A bracelet found by Dutch nuclear scientists to be radioactive.
Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu
Key Facts
The Dutch Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection (ANVS) issued product alerts for a pendant, a sleep mask, two necklaces and five different bracelets including one for children.
Brands affected by the alerts include Energy Armor and Magnetix Wellness.
Though these products may be only slightly radioactive, wearing them continuously for a long time could cause tissue and DNA damage, scientists warned.
Scientists did not rule out the possibility that other products were radioactive, and advised consumers to store away items claimed to have a “negative ion effect.”
Nonetheless, several of the items identified as potentially dangerous remain up for sale on sites like Shopify and Amazon.
A pendant found by Dutch nuclear scientists to be radioactive.
Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu
Key Background
There is no evidence that 5G networks have negative health effects. Despite this, 5G networks have been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories, including one claiming that the networks are to blame for the Covid-19 pandemic. This has proved fertile ground for sellers of “anti-5G” devices like the ones flagged by ANVS. Some of these items, such as the “Quantum Pendant,” also claim dubious health benefits like improving circulation and heightening concentration.
Big Number
2 billion. That’s how many people are predicted to have 5G access by the end of 2021, according to a report by telecommunications giant Ericsson. Ninety-five percent of the world’s population is expected to have 5G access by 2027, according to the report.
Contra
While 5G networks may not harm the human body, the FAA has warned they could interfere with instruments pilots use to determine their distance from the ground. There is concern that AT&T and Verizon’s January 5 5G rollout could have a severe impact on domestic air travel.
Tangent
In 2020, 5G conspiracy theorists set fire to cell phone towers and other telecommunications structures in England. National Health Service Medical Director Stephen Powis told the Associated Press he was “absolutely outraged, absolutely disgusted” that people would destroy infrastructure needed to coordinate Covid-19 response.
Further Reading
“‘Anti-5G’ necklaces are radioactive and dangerous, Dutch nuclear experts say” (Guardian)
“How the 5G coronavirus conspiracy theory went from fringe to mainstream” (Vox)
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