Billions of people have made cell phones a non-negotiable part of their daily lives. Cell phone carriers are excitedly rushing to expand 4G LTE networks (the next step up from 3G and 2G “EDGE” technologies), which are capable of performing extremely powerful wireless data transfers. Fancy smart phones are impressing everyone with their ability to make life more convenient and fun.
But is anybody questioning the health costs of all this technology?
The issue of whether or not cell phone radiation increases cancer risk has been the subject of much scrutiny and debate over the years. Although many major government health organizations say more research is needed before we can make any definitive conclusions, a number of studies have shown that, indeed, we should be concerned about cell phone radiation. (The National Cancer Institute offers an overview of key points on the matter, along a list of current studies being done.)
Well-known health organizations and medical schools have taken actions, released statements, and/or conducted studies that undoubtedly raise red flags about cell phone usage. Here are some points to consider:
Due to cell phone radiation possibly causing cancer, the World Health Organization in 2011 added mobile phones to its list of “carcinogenic hazards” (this list also includes engine exhaust and chloroform).
A Yale School of Medicine study done in March 2012 found that cell phone exposure to pregnant mice affected the behavior of the mice’s offspring. The study found that cell phone radiation caused mice fetuses to have higher anxiety, worse memory, and more hyperactivity.
A study published by the Journal of Andrology examined the effect of a mobile phone’s electromagnetic frequency (EMF) radiation on sperm, and the results indicated that cell phones may damage sperm quality.
Countless other studies have shown that men who use cell phones have lower quantities of sperm, slower sperm, and defective sperm, compared to men who don’t use cell phones (do such people really exist these days?).
Men who carry smart phones in their pockets (near the gonads) should be particularly keen on this discussion – because radiation is known to negatively affect sperm.
It’s clear that men, women, and children alike may be at risk for cancer if they’re exposed to constant, proximal cell phone radiation.
As smart phones become more entrenched modern human beings’ lives, does this mean we’re going to experience the effects of MORE harmful radiation exposure across the country?
Only time will tell. While cell phone technologies have added a great deal of value to our lives, the dangers are well documented. This technology is here to stay, however, so, by all means, please follow some tips to help reduce your exposure:
1) Never, NEVER sleep with your cell phone - unless it's either turned off OR the "ringer" (cell phone data network connection) is disabled. Same goes for tablet computers and gadgets with an active cell carrier connection.
2) If you use your cell phone as an alarm clock, try to turn the ringer/cell phone data connection OFF while you sleep. Most cell phones will allow the clock and alarm to continue to function with the cell phone antenna turned off.
3) If you're a man, it is especially dangerous to carry a cell phone in your pants pockets due to its proximity to your testes. Turn your cell phone OFF if it's in your pocket. If you wear a suit or jacket, carry your cell phone in your vest pocket. Alternatively, many cell phone manufacturers make holster accessories that clip onto your belt and can comfortably accomodate your cell phone.
4) During long cell phone calls, try not to hold the phone up to your ear for the entire duration of the call, or use a "bluetooth" wireless headset. Use a hardwired earpiece and microphone (Apple iPhones come with this accessory). At worst, put your phone on "speaker" mode and hold it away from your head during these long calls.
5) If you consistently are on the phone all day for your job, leave your cell phone in your desk and use a hardwired land line or "Skype" phone on your computer instead.
There's no way to put the cell phone genie back in its bottle. However, by being conscious and careful, perhaps we can all learn to live with evermore powerful wireless technology without sacrificing our wellness.
Throughout his lengthy career, Dr. Char has spent a lifetime researching and applying holistic treatments to benefit thousands of patients worldwide. As an ardent supporter of naturopathic medicine and a well known voice of reason in the holistic medical and dental community, he has authored three books and countless articles on the subject of wellness. He is also a nationally recognized authority on alternative and complementary medicine, and has used both successfully throughout his distinguished career. www.drjohnchar.com/blog