If you are like me, you are in close proximity to your cell phone 24 hours a day (it’s on my nightstand, when I am asleep). There is quite a lot of controversy on this topic, but one thing is sure, there is a lack of research and coverage on the subject. The result is that there are few definitive answers at this point.
Radio-frequency energy is a form of non-ionizing radiation given off by cell phones, WI-FI routers, baby monitors and many other devices. Studies have linked electromagnetic radiation from long-term use to an increased risk of brain cancer, and other health problems. Cell phones emit radiation, no matter what the activity, even when on, but not used. The most radiation is emitted when attempting to connect to a cellular tower, when the phone is moving, while riding in a car or train or when the phone is very far from cellphone towers. This is the reason why you should avoid using it while in an elevator where the signal is weak.
Since nobody knows with certainty how long-term cell phone use is going to effect us, here are some tips to minimize the amount of radiation you are absorbing from your phone.
- Use a head set or speaker, they still emit radiation, but it is a lot less
- Hold the phone away from your body as much as possible, do not wear your phone on a clip or put it in your pocket
- Call when the signal is strong, do not use radiation shields (once touted as preventing radiation exposure), as they make your phone work harder and thus emitting more radiation
- Text more, talk less, texting uses less radiation than voice communication
- Limit cell phone use for your kids, they absorb twice as much radiation as an adult