Mobile phone radiation is indeed a concern for some people due to its potential impact on health. However, it is important to remember that the health effects of mobile phone radiation are still being debated in scientific circles, and the research that is currently available is not fully conclusive.

Mobile phone emit low levels of non-ionizing radiation when in use. The type of radiation emitted by mobile phone is also referred to as radio frequency (RF) energy. As the National Cancer Institute states, there is currently no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiation increases the risk of cancer in humans. The only consistently recognized biological effect of radiofrequency radiation in humans is heating of exposed body tissue area.¹

Mobile phone have become a part of everyday life. However, people are concerned about the dangers of radiation from this device, is this concern true or not? Let's look at the following explanation.

Some Frequently Asked Questions about mobile phone use and its effects on health: ^1,2,3,4

1. Can mobile phone usage lead to cancer?

The answer to the question cannot be determined with certainty based on scientific facts. Several organizations advise using mobile phone with caution. However, further research is needed, before we know the health impact of mobile phone.

2. Do mobile phone emit radiation?

Yes - radio frequency radiation (RF) is used by both mobile and cordless phones to transmit signals. RF is distinct from other forms of radiation (such as x-rays) that we clearly know can be harmful on health.

3. Are there any health problems from using the mobile phone?

The potential long-term health effects of RF radiation from mobile phones are unknown. The only consistently recognized biological effect of radiofrequency radiation on humans is heating of exposed tissue.

Precautions to reduce mobile phone radiation exposure:^3,4

1. Limit exposure time: Try not to spend too much time on your phone. Take regular breaks and avoid overuse.

2. Use headphones or speakerphone: When using a mobile phone, use headphones or speakerphone to reduce direct exposure to the head area.

3. Keep your distance: Keep your mobile phone away from your body when not in use, especially while sleeping. Put the mobile phone on the table near the bed.

4. Pay attention to the use of electronic devices, such as mobile phones, by children: The child population can be more susceptible to mobile phone radiation exposure, because radiation absorption is higher than the adult population. Limit the usage time, provide supervision, and consider using airplane mode when not in use and limiting mobile phone usage to at least 20 centimeter.

Radiation from mobile phone may still affect human health. Therefore, it is important to take precautions and reduce radiation exposure from mobile phone as much as possible.

Reference:

1. FDA staff.Do Cell Phones Pose a Health Hazard?. Food and Drug Administration. Last reviewed: March 11, 2022. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/cell-phones/do-cell-phones-pose-health-hazard

2. CDC Staff. Frequently Asked Questions about Cell Phones and Your Health.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: 09 June 2014. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/cell_phones._faq.html

3. Betterhealth Staff. Mobile phones and your health.Betterhealth. Last reviewed: June 30, 2014. Available at:https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/mobile-phones-and-your-health

4. dr. Fadhli Rizal Makarim. Can Electronic Device Radiation Cause Brain Cancer? HelloDoc. Last reviewed May 17, 2021. Available at: https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/radiation-electronic-tools-can-cause-cancer-otak