Cell Phones – Growing Health Concerns

Since the introduction of cell phones in early 90’s, there is growing concern about the radiations emitted by them. The apprehension is getting higher with high penetration rates of internet as well as colossal increase in time spent on internet, over the last decade.

Cell phones emit non-ionizing radiation, which becomes higher while in use. This radiation falls under radio frequency category. The parameter being used to measure this RF radiation is the specific absorption rate (SAR), given in units of Watts of power absorbed per kilogram of tissue (W/kg). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which regulates cell phones, in the United States, has set radiation standards for cell phones at 1.6 watts per kilogram averaged over 1 gram of tissue.

As stated by the National Cancer Institute, “there is currently no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiation increases cancer risk in humans. The only consistently recognized biological effect of radiofrequency radiation in humans is heating.” (FDA).

Data: Statista

The RF waves given off by cell phones don’t have enough energy to damage DNA directly. A number of research studies have been conducted in Lab animals as well as human without any conclusive results, about the possible link of mobile phones and some brain tumors or cancer.  Some studies have found possible increased rates of certain types of tumors in lab animals exposed to RF radiation, others had some important limitations that make them unlikely to end the argument linking cell phone with cancer risk.

 “Just because you can’t feel, see, smell, or hear it, does not mean that the emissions from your electronics are harmless,”

Besides, cancer there are other minor issues reported to be connected with excessive mobile usage including, Insomnia, difficulty in focusing, sore eyes, headaches, neck and back pains and postural problems.

There is consistent controversy over the effects of RF waves on human bodies, and no research is conclusive about the safety, leaving an empty ground for private researchers and conspiracy theorists to prove otherwise. The governments and international agencies over the last 20 years have not been successful in finding conclusive evidence. To be safe, experts suggest the following practices, to limit unnecessary exposure to radiation from mobile devices:

• Use hands-free.
• Avoid using your phone when it has a low signal.
• Be careful when streaming.
• Unplug from your device usage as much as possible.
• Don’t keep your phone next to your body.
• Don’t sleep next to your phone.
• Keep the phone on airplane mode when you’re not using it.
• Don’t use “shielding” products.

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