For months now, I’ve been reading about the potential harm that cell phone use can cause unborn babies, children and even adults. Dr. Mercola has many articles about the dangers of high level Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) that is emitted through wireless mobile devices, particularly cell phones. However, he is very alternative when it comes to health and wellness, and while I respect his opinions, I try not to rely on his information solely, but rather find other sources to support his theories.
Results of a Denmark study that involved 13,000 children shows a possible link between a mother’s use of a cell phone during pregnancy and later behavioral problems that develop in children exposed. The study states that, “They found that mothers who did use the handsets were 54% more likely to have children with behavioral problems and that the likelihood increased with the amount of potential exposure to the radiation.” There are questions as to whether the behavior problems are due to the exposure to EMR through cell phone use during pregnancy or that mothers who use a cell phone regularly may not be giving their children the attention they seek. So, the study itself may be flawed.
FDA says there is a lack of scientific evidence showing that cell phones are harmful. However, The World Health Organization advises that a precautionary principle should be applied with regard to cell phone use, advising that just because there is no scientific proof of harm, there is still uncertainty and therefore prudent use of cell phones should be adopted. Some of their recommendations are:
- Minimization of cellphone usage
- Limitation of use by at-risk population (such as children),
- Adoption of cellphones and microcells with ALARA levels of radiation
- Wider use of hands-free technologies
I don’t think I’ll be giving up my cell phone any time soon. However, given that I don’t stand in front of my microwave when it’s running, I think I’ll start using a standard telephone more and my cell phone a little less. And we’ve never let our 3 year old use our cell phones, as we’re not taking any chances until someone can prove conclusively that cell phone use is safe! What are your feelings on the subject? Do you think cell phones can damage the brain?
I wish I could believe cell phones don’t cause any damage, but I have talked to friends, who like me feel the EMR’s in my head and in my jaw, specifically my fillings when I’m on the phone. That can’t be good. I can also feel the phone when it’s in my pocket. I try to use a headset as much as possible, but don’t have very good volume on the current headset. I say go hands free as much as possible. Better to be too cautious than not cautious enough.
Dagny McKinley
http://www.onnotextiles.com
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