Environmentalists and health care professionals often point out to various health risks of cell phones, but do the tall claims that they make really hold ground? Join us as we try to find out.
Nowadays, cell phones have become an indispensable part of our life so much so that we can’t even think about living a life without this device. You get to see people with a cell phone stuck to their ears everywhere, right from in the balcony of multi-storied building, while crossing the road and even while driving.
There is little doubt about the fact that cell phones have revolutionized the field of communication, however, there do exist a few downsides of this technology that we cannot afford to ignore. Unfortunately these health risks are not known to all, and that makes the use of this device all the more hazardous.
Risks of Cell Phones to Humans
The first thing that strikes your mind when we talk about the health effects of cell phones is likely to be the harmful radiation coming from these devices which is believed to have some serious effects on our health. While there is no questioning the fact that this radiation is harmful, you need to understand that cell phones affect our body in more than one ways. Discussed below are some ill-effects of cell phones that you can’t afford to turn a blind eye to.
Cell Phone Radiation and Cancer
Due to the proximity of phones when they are held close to the head, the radiofrequency energy affects the brain. This can lead to malignant brain tumors like gliomas i.e. tumors of the cells that surround the nerve tissues. Even people who use the hands-free option when operating their cell phones are not spared of this ill effect as the chances of cancer – even if mild, do exist. Even salivary glands are sensitive to cell phone radiofrequency energy.
On prolonged use of cell phones, these salivary glands can develop tumors. One also has to take into consideration the dangers of cell phone towers when discussing the ill-effects of mobile communications technology.
Cell Phones and Bacteria
Cell phones may just be one of the most scary sources of transporting super bacteria! This may come as a surprise for many, but when one talks on the phone for long or even uses earphones for long, the bacteria in the ear multiply manifold (and it’s not like we need to be reminded of the harmful effects of bacteria).
As shocking as it may sound, cell phones that are used by doctors and other health care personnel, may actually carry some super bacteria i.e. bacteria that are resistant to commonly used antibiotics. Due to the proximity of health care personnel to these super bacteria, there is a chance that they may even be found on their cell phones.
Accidents Caused due to Use of Cell Phones
Although not directly a health risk, one cannot deny the fact that there is a cell phone involved in every other motor vehicle accident that takes place today. Irrespective of whether you use it to talk or text, cell phone proves to be a huge distraction when driving. it is difficult to pay equal attention to driving and talking on the cell phone.
And texting while driving is – needless to say, an utterly foolish thing to do. A recent study revealed that there is a four times higher chance that the person will be involved in an accident if he uses his cell phone (even hands free) while driving. Like drinking and driving, even the use of cell phones while driving can be dangerous for your life.
Other Health Hazards of Using Cell Phone
There are many more claims when it comes to cell phone damage to other organs. The blood and bones are also highly susceptible to radiations of any kind. Cell phone usage is also known to lead to problems like headaches and mental confusion. It can also affect the brain’s normal electrical activity, especially while sleeping. At the same time, use of cell phones can also affect the normal functioning of the endocrine system by releasing excess of stress hormones.
All these are results of independent studies that have been done to understand the far reaching effects of cell phone radiation. People that have had an artificial pacemaker are at a higher risk of developing problems with the functioning of their pacemaker if they use cell phones. When a cell phone is kept in proximity to their pacemaker – like if it is kept in their chest pocket, then it may interfere with the smooth functioning of the pacemaker.
Although it cannot be said conclusively that there are chances of landing with cancer due to cell phone radiation alone – as the radiation that is emitted is relatively mild, it is a well-known fact that excess of anything can be harmful in a long run. Taking that into consideration, it is best to keep your cell phone usage to minimum and try to keep it switched off at night or when you are not using it.
It is also believed that pointing the cellular antenna towards your exposed body can be harmful for your health. And though not substantiated, it is said that by using a hands free – since it does away with the antenna, you tend to reduce your exposure to radiation to a great extent.
