Stop sleeping with your cell phone

The scientists warned that people need to keep their cell phones several feet away from them to reduce radiation exposure and health risks.

Researchers released guidance for reducing exposure to cell phone radiation, amid mounting evidence that cell phone use may be linked to cancer, attention, mental health and reproductive health issues, according to Daily Mail.  

Cell phones transmit information using low frequency radio signals, which may expose us to unhealthy radiation, especially when streaming or downloading large files.

Research has not been able to prove definitively that cell phone radiation is dangerous, but there have been enough studies linking the two to warrant caution, especially for children.

 The radiofrequency (RF) energy cell phones use to transmit information are at the bottom of the radiation totem poll, but research suggests that our frequent, close-range exposure to cell phones may be enough to endanger us. 

‘Keeping a phone directly on the body has never been a good idea,’ says Dr Devra Davis. 

The notice explains that the phone’s RF emissions were tested at 5 mm – about the thickness of a fine point pen – from the body. 

But it also includes advice for reducing exposure  by using speakerphone or hands free accessories. 

‘Most people are not aware that there is a clear warning to keep the phone off the body embedded in the phone,’ says Dr Davis. 

This is particularly worrisome because most parents aren’t aware of these warnings are not managing their children’s exposure to phones. 

The notes that RF may more easily penetrate the brain matter of children than that of adults. The exposure may also be more damaging and have more lasting effects on the developing brain. 

Studies have shown evidence that cell phone exposure may cause tumors in the brain or ears, where the body is frequently in contact with the device.  

Though research on RF’s effects on children specifically is fairly scarce, many psychologists have already warned that cell phone use may be linked to poorer attention, mental health and sleep for adolescents. 

Other research has shown strong links between RF and male sperm counts and sperm quality. 

Studies ‘have show that men who keep phone in their pockets the longest have lowest sperm count, with most damage,’ says Dr Davis. 

‘Many people keep their phones in their pockets for hours a day, esp in the summer with thinner exposures will be far greater,’ she adds. 

Contemporary cell phone signals use ‘the weakest signals, but strength of the signals is not issue when comes to biological effect.’ It’s not the power, it’s the irregular nature of signal.’  

The researchers guidelines address this by explaining that the most dangerous exposures happen when there are surges of RF energy. This happens when, essentially, the technology has to work harder to transmit information.

Scientists the release advises, should use headsets, sleep with their phones away from them (not under pillows or on nightstands) and carry them in a bag, instead of in a pocket, bra or belt holster. 

‘The advice is welcome, and long overdue,’ says Dr Davis. 

N.H.Kh