Geospatial modelling of electromagnetic fields from mobile phone base stations

There is concern that exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) from mobile phone base stations might lead to adverse health effects. In order to assess potential health risks, reliable exposure assessment is necessary. Geospatial exposure modelling is a promising approach to quantify ambient exposure to RF-EMF for epidemiological studies involving large populations. We modelled RF-EMF for Amsterdam, The Netherlands by using a 3D RF-EMF model (NISMap). We subsequently compared modelled results to RF-EMF measurements in five areas with differing built-up characteristics (e.g., low-rise residential, high-rise commercial). We performed, in each area, repeated continuous measurements along a predefined ~2km long path. This mobile monitoring approach captures the high spatial variability in electric field strengths. The modelled values were in good agreement with the measurements. We found a Spearman correlation of 0.86 for GSM900 and 0.85 for UMTS between modelled and measured values. The average measured GSM900 field strength was 0.21V/m, and UMTS 0.09V/m. The model underestimated the GSM900 field strengths by 0.07V/m, and slightly overestimated the UMTS field strengths by 0.01V/m. NISMap provides a reliable way of assessing environmental RF-EMF exposure for epidemiological studies of RF-EMF and health in urban areas.