Health Risks from Cell Phones

Once a novelty, the ubiquitous cell phone has become as ingrained into our society as television and the home computer. Many people, especially the younger generation, have dispensed with traditional land lines altogether. Technology has reduced the size of cell phones significantly, while imbuing them with dozens of impressive new features, from text messaging to video capability. But the whispered warnings about possible health risks from these devices are gradually increasing in volume over the constant din of musical ring tones.

That cell phones distract motorists has long been a hotly-debated issue, with consumer advocates citing evidence of higher accident risks when drivers are talking on the telephone. This has led to some safety innovations, namely headset units and voice-activated dialing. Still, many researchers argue that the simple fact of talking on the telephone while driving, even while keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road, creates almost as much of a distraction as the conventional method. Their data on simulated driving tests shows increased accidents and reduced reaction times for drivers engaged in hands-free cell phone conversations, particularly when heavy traffic is concerned (Strayer et al). Many accidents involving pedestrians occur when both the motorist and the pedestrian are talking on cell phones.

Some scientists suggest that radiation emitted from cell phones could cause brain tumors in long-term users. Since the cell phone industry is still relatively new, several decades might pass before there is any conclusive evidence. The head of England's National Radiological Protection Board advises parents not to give cell phones to children, whose developing brain tissue might be particularly vulnerable, and a professor at the University of Washington urges the use of headsets instead of holding the cell phones directly to the ear (Fox News).

Of particular concern to men is the theory that excessive cell phone use reduces both sperm count and mobility. Results of a study, presented recently to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, showed a nearly 25% decrease in sperm for men who talked four hours or more on their cell phones daily (Nordqvist). There are plenty of opposing views on this subject, and a great deal more research is needed. Still, men planning to start families should take heed.

In response to the continuing safety issues and as a means to increase revenue, companies marketing cell phone accessories are now selling radiation shields, which consist of tiny, insulated pads that fit snugly over the earpiece, and are supposedly designed to work with any model of cell phone. The claims range that the shields block anywhere from 80% to 99% of harmful radiation, and some retailers even contend that the units actually boost the clarity of calls. The most popular type of shield is Safeguard, available for about four or five dollars apiece.