Scientists raised concerns over public health risks from the implementation of a 5G mobile Cyprus network during a discussion in parliament with MPs.
While according to EU directives, Cyprus must issue 5G broadband licenses by the end of 2020, scientists and health specialist attending a joint meeting of the Environment and Health Committees told MPs that "radiation from antennas can cause cancer".
Chair of the House Environment Committee AKEL MP Adamos Adamou said, "despite some scientists declaring that these antennas are not a health hazard as electromagnetic field emissions are too low, the World Health Organization is talking about a possible cancer threat."
EDEK President Marinos Sizopoulos stressed that "public health is the number one priority and that precautions must be taken before applying any electromagnetic radiation technology to minimize the risks".
DIKO MP George Prokopiou said that measures should be taken to protect children as cancer cases amongst the young have increased.
"Unfortunately, we have heard today from scientists, university professors, who have conducted studies and research, that the increase in cancer cases is attributed to exposure to an electronic cloud created by radiation emitted by mobile phones, tablets and connectors."
Cyprus Greens MP, George Perdikis, has called for the implementation of 5G to be suspended in Cyprus until a public health impact study is carried out.
At the same meeting, the chairman of the Engomi Elementary School Parents Association, George Economou, expressed his concern that there were three mobile antennas within 20 meters of the school.
He said there is an increase in cases of cancer observed in the Nicosia school’s periphery and called for a scientific study.
The WHO together with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified all radio frequency radiation (of which mobile signals are a part) as "possibly carcinogenic".
It has been put in this category because "there is evidence that falls short of being conclusive that exposure may cause cancer in humans".
Eating pickled vegetables and using talcum powder are classed in the same category, according to the BBC.
Alcoholic drinks and processed meat are in a higher category because the evidence is stronger.
