People have discussed the dangers of radiation, particularly those emitted by our smartphones. Our phones emit radiation in the form of radiofrequency or radio waves. It is understandable why people have become wary; after all, we hold our phones close to our bodies, and their proximity while we make calls has become a topic of concern. The World Health Organization has analyzed numerous studies conducted in recent years and concluded that there is no direct link between mobile phone usage and an increased risk of developing cancer.
Radiation levels and risk
The risk of radiation depends on various factors, such as the type and period of exposure. According to Radiation Answers, 500 – 1,000 millisievert (mSv) received in a short period of time can cause various health problems. High levels of radiation can cause not only internal but also external damage, like skin burns and blisters. Particularly, exposure to >100,000 mSv will lead to death within a few hours. Meanwhile, 50 – 500 mSv received, whether in a short or long span of time, offers no observable health effects. However, anything above 100 mSv slightly increases the chances of getting cancer.
But how much radiation does one get anyway? The American Cancer Society found that an average American is exposed to 3 mSv of radiation from natural sources in a year. A single chest X-ray exposes the patient to about 0.1 mSv. While relatively low, frequent exposure to X-ray radiation poses a health risk. This is why one can only do an X-ray procedure once every 6 to 12 months.
How do smartphones par with the data?
In comparison, a mobile phone with 5G emits frequencies of about 80 GHz, which is a bit higher than previous generations that emit a frequency range of only 0.7-27 GHz. According to the National Cancer Institute, “these frequencies all fall in the nonionizing range of the spectrum.” As mentioned a while ago, our phones emit a type of nonionizing radiation called radiofrequency. Non-ionizing radiation, unlike ionizing radiation (like X-rays), is considered to have a lower effect on a person’s health. Cancer and other diseases are often due to damage to a person’s tissue or DNA, and nonionizing radiation does not contain enough radiation to create that damage.
Due to public concerns spanning decades, researchers from 13 countries conducted a series of studies and research to identify the connection between cellphone use and diseases like head and neck tumors. The case-control studies were conducted using interviews, observation, and in-depth research with participants varying in age, gender, and location. In the end, results showed that there is no association between cellphone use and the increased risk of developing tumors.
Moderation of usage is still advised
Despite the new findings, people who are still concerned about excessive smartphone usage still present a sound argument. Even if the evidence to date suggests that smartphones do not cause cancer in humans, moderating the use of our gadgets can still have a significant impact on our daily routine. We can foster better physical connection if we are not glued to our phones as well.
Photo Credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Gustavo Fring. The photos in the body of the article have been provided by the National Cancer Institute.
Source: Radiation Answers / American Cancer Society / National Cancer Institute
