Cell phones have become a part of most people’s everyday life, and because we use them so often it is helpful to know some good strategies to optimize safety around them.
The California Department of Public Health recently put out a warning about cell phone overuse. They state that the science is still evolving, however lab experiments and studies have suggested the possibility of long-term cellphone use to be linked to certain types of cancer, lower sperm counts, headaches and effects on learning, memory, hearing and sleep.
I spent this past year working with a wonderful lady who recently passed away from brain cancer. She said while she may never know for sure what caused the cancer, she couldn’t help but wonder if the cancer came from her extensive use of her cellphone, thus the reason for this article.
Multiple studies have shown that children absorb more MWR (Microwave Radiation) than adults because their brain tissues are more absorbent, their skulls are thinner, and their relative size is smaller. Fetuses are particularly vulnerable, because MWR exposure can lead to degeneration of the protective sheath that surrounds brain neurons.
Until we know for sure here are some easy steps you may not know to minimize your exposure to EMFs (electromagnetic frequencies).
• Keep your phone off your body when you’re not using it. Keeping your phone just a few feet away from you can make a big difference!
• Carry your cell phone in a backpack, briefcase, etc. NOT in a pocket. Your cell phone does not emit RF energy when it’s in airplane mode (so keep it on airplane mode as much as possible).
• Don’t sleep with your phone near your head. Unless the phone is off or in airplane mode, keep it at least a few feet away from your bed.
• Don’t rely on a “radiation shield” or other products claiming to block radiation from cell phones as they are unproven.
Reduce or avoid using your cell phone when it is sending out high levels of RF (radio frequency) energy. This happens mainly when:
*You see only one or two bars displayed. Cell phones put out more RF energy to connect with cell towers when the signal is weak.
*You are in a fast-moving car, bus, or train. Your phone puts out more RF energy to maintain connections to avoid dropping calls as it switches connections from one cell tower to the next unless it is in airplane mode.
*You are streaming audio or video or downloading or sending large files (try to keep the phone away from your head and body while doing this).
*To watch movies or listen to playlists on your phone, download them first, and then switch to airplane mode while you watch or listen.
By taking these easy precautionary steps we can still enjoy all the benefits our cell phones offer! Please share these tips.
-Marnie