Are We Safe From Cell Phone Radiation?

Cell phones and other mobile devices are inevitable for us and it has become an integral part of our social and professional life. The users are spread over all the age groups from toddlers to old people. Specification and model vary from basic type to high-end smart devices.

Are mobile transmitting devices safe for our body?

Every mobile device is a two-way radio transmitting device which sends and receives signals for communication. These devices are operating in the microwave range of the radio frequency spectrum. Research shows that frequent usage of mobile phones could cause health problems in the human body.

SAR – Specific Absorption Rate

SAR is a measure of the amount of radio frequency energy absorbed by the human body when exposed to electromagnetic radiation. FCC has strict guidelines for public exposure to electromagnetic radiation and limits SAR levels of 1.6 watts per kilogram (1.6 W/kg).

Cell phone operation cycle

A cell phone always communicates with its base stations and updates the user’s location. Once the user moves to another cell location where its received signal strength is greater than the first base station, it will switch the connection to the second base station. When the user moves to an area with the cell network coverage is poor, the mobile device uses maximum power to send signals to the base station to remain connected.

At idle conditions, cell phones use less power to operate. During a call, the power of the signal varies depending on the systems, modulation schemes, and nature of the network. These variations in RF exposure have a significant effect on the human body over time. We do not have statistical data of many decades but it has been confirmed that heavy usage of mobile devices could contribute to many types of tumors.

Devices in the microwave frequency range are:

• Cell Phones
• Cordless Phone
• Wi-Fi – routers
• Microwave oven

Devices that fall under the operating range of a microwave are believed to be unsafe for long-term usage. It has been observed that during a 6-minute phone call, our brain temperature will rise up to 7 degrees Fahrenheit.

Complex 3D simulation shows that young kids have a greater level of radiation absorption compared to adults because of smaller head sizes and tissue complexity. Similarly, the use of mobile phones cause could damage to male reproductive system.

RF exposure has also been studied in pregnant women and found that microwave radiation could affect the fetus. Long-term exposure to WiFi signals also could be harmful for pregnant women.

How to find RF exposure levels on mobile devices?

Dial *#07# for most of the devices to find the SAR ratio.

If the SAR value is greater than 1.6, it is not safe to use that device.

IoS Devices: Settings -> General -> Legal -> RF Exposure

How to use mobile devices safely?

• Make use of an inbuilt speakerphone when possible.
• Use headphones for long conversations.
• Utilize wireless headsets like Bluetooth devices.
• Keep away from direct contact with the lower body even if not calling (mobile devices continuously communicate with its neighboring base station tower).
• Keep mobiles and tablets in flight mode before giving them to kids for games or watching videos.
• Move to an area where more cell phone coverage is available.

Conclusion

There are no easy solutions to completely get rid of RF exposure while using mobile devices. Some experts suggest that RF shielding could help to reduce direct exposure of microwave signals to our bodies. Effective casing for smartphones is under development, it has yet to be tested and approved by the regulatory authorities.