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Did you know that on average people check their mobile phone every 12 minutes, making it an inextricable part of our lives? In light of this fact, questions surrounding the potential health impacts of cell phone usage arise more frequently; one prominent question is “How much radiation can my body tolerate from using a cellphone?” Let’s unravel this crucial issue together.
What We Know About Mobile Phone Radiation
Mobile phones emit non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation, meaning it does not cause direct damage to cells or DNA. This differs from ionizing radiation such as X-rays or nuclear materials which emit high energy levels that disrupt atomic structure and alter DNA, potentially leading to cancerous growths.
RELATED: How the NCC is addressing recurring concerns on mobile phone radiation
Mobile phone radiation emissions are measured using “specific absorption rate”, an international standard established by regulatory bodies. In the US, for instance, regulatory bodies set an allowable maximum SAR limit at 1.6 watts per kilogram over 1 g of tissue for head and torso exposure; while in Europe the maximum limit is 2 watts averaged over 10 grams.
Is Mobile Phone Radiation Harmful?
Assumptions about mobile phone radiation exposure vary; some are convinced it poses significant health risks while others do not believe this to be the case. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), mobile phone radiation falls into Group 2B for possible carcinogenicity due to studies linking heavy users and possible exposure, but with no conclusive proof showing its cause.
Apple’s iPhone 12 Fails European Union Standards
French regulators recently ordered Apple to stop selling the iPhone 12 due to emissions exceeding European Union exposure standards. Apple denied these findings and maintained their device is compliant with regulations.
The iPhone 12 released in late 2020 failed one of two electromagnetic wave tests designed to assess their capacity to be absorbed by our bodies. The National Frequency Agency tested 141 cellphones and found that when held or carried in pockets by hand or pocket, an iPhone 12 absorbs 5.74 watts per kilogram – higher than the EU standard of 4 watts per kilogram.
The agency told Apple to carry out all available means to immediately correct this malfunction for phones already in use. If nothing works, the phone company must recall the model, already sold.
Josh Gordon, a technology expert at Geonode, explains, “The data on mobile phone radiation and health risks remain inconclusive. Out of hundreds of studies conducted over the past few decades, some suggest a possible link between long-term mobile usage and health problems such as brain tumours or infertility. Yet many other studies contradict these findings. The problem is that this topic is highly complex, and isolating the influence of mobile phone radiation on human health is exceedingly difficult. Often, studies contradict each other, and seeing a clear pattern is challenging.”
As Gordon points out, it’s crucial to understand that:
- Exposure to mobile phone radiation depends heavily on how and where the device is used.
- Other lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors also impact these potential health conditions.
- Mobile phones have only been widely utilized for a handful of decades, making it difficult to study their long-term impacts accurately.
Tips for Minimizing Exposure to Mobile Phone Radiation
Although the risks associated with phone radiation remain poorly understood and are thought to be minimal, limiting unnecessary exposure can only help protect our health and reduce unnecessary exposure. Josh Gordon from Geonode provides some insights on how to do this effectively:
- Although the risks associated with phone radiation remain largely unstudied and appear low, it wouldn’t hurt to take steps to decrease unnecessary exposure.
- Limit mobile phone conversations or use a hands-free device or speakerphone. The further away your phone is from your body, the less radiation is emitted into the environment.
- Do not store the phone on your body. Your phone emits radiation even when not being used, as it communicates with nearby cell towers. Where possible, avoid keeping your phone close to you for extended periods in your pocket or elsewhere against your body.
- Text rather than call when possible. Texting uses less energy, producing less radiation in return.
- Keep children away from mobile phone usage. Children have thinner skulls and developing nervous systems that make them susceptible to radiation exposure, according to scientists.
After carefully considering all available evidence, cell phone radiation might best be seen as one of many potential threats in our modern world. While studies and research will likely continue to shed new light on this important subject, for now, enjoy its convenience responsibly while taking steps to limit any unnecessary radiation exposure.
Credit: https://geonode.com/
