There is no avoiding the fact that cell phones are all around us and they are not going away any time soon. These days, it is common to find cell phones in the hands of children, even those under the age of six. While these can be wonderful tools to help us stay organized and get through the day, there are certain health risks that come with owning them. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the possible problems they can cause, in the hands of children and adults.
Cell phones are generally believed to be safe if used correctly. However, this does not mean that they are foolproof, and it all depends on who is using one. Children are much more susceptible to potential dangers than adults due to their lack of knowledge. That’s why it’s important for parents to be aware of the potential dangers.
-ELECTRIC SHOCK-
There are many potential health hazards associated with having a cell phone. Perhaps one of the biggest is the risk of electric shock. Batteries are powerful and can shock anyone who uses them. This problem is very common if the phone is plugged into the wall to charge it, since you are now dealing with much more electrical current.
While adults can be electrocuted while using a cell phone, the real danger centers around use by children. For example, children may not know that if they go swimming with a cell phone in their pocket, it may cause a short circuit and electric shock. Also, children are often very curious when it comes to electronics; Depending on the composition of the phone, they may be able to stick a finger into a part of the phone and receive an electric shock.
Both adults and children worry about the risk of electric shock while using their phone outdoors in the rain. The combination of water and electronic devices can cause problems if one holds the phone directly over the ear, as this could cause an electric shock to the head. That’s why it’s important to never use a cell phone if you’re outside and it’s raining or snowing.
-CHOKING HAZARDS-
Another type of health risk is suffocation. Many people don’t think about this when buying or using cell phones, but removable parts can be ingested and can cause suffocation if the airway is blocked. Phones with removable rubber or plastic parts should be avoided.
This type of health risk is more focused on children than adults, but it’s a big problem regardless. Many phones, especially older models, have removable parts that could be swallowed by children if not watched carefully. That is why it is important for parents to investigate whether or not the cell phone they plan to buy for their child is safe, as this often goes unnoticed.
However, choking hazards apply to more than just new cell phones. As cells get smaller and smaller, kids are more likely to swallow phones whole. This can cause devastating health problems and should be considered a major concern for most parents. Children should never have a phone that is small enough for them to swallow.
-POTENTIAL CANCER RISKS-
While the research is inconclusive on this topic, one of the latest talking points is that cell phones can cause brain cancer if used excessively. There isn’t enough scientific data to back this up, so you probably don’t need to worry to the point of not using your phone anymore. However, the fact is that it is a possibility and that every effort must be made to prevent this from happening at all costs.
One of the main reasons people think cell phones can cause cancer is the close proximity most people hold their phones to their ear. The theory is that having the phone and its associated electrical and data currents so close to the brain for an extended period of time can cause potential health risks. There are many things that can be done to prevent this. Most new phones have very powerful speakerphone features built in, allowing the user to place the phone on a desk while using it instead of holding it to the ear. This will not only give the user the security that they are not putting themselves in danger, but it can be a much more comfortable way to talk on the phone. Therefore, those who fear that cell phones may cause cancer should avoid holding them to the ear.
-CONCLUSION-
Cell phones should not be shunned for their potential health risks. After all, there are much more dangerous tools available for both children and adults; relative to those, cell phones are pretty benign. That said, it is recommended that those who fear the potential health risks of cell phones adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Never stick a finger in a cell phone. This is even more important if it is plugged into the wall.
2. Never carry a cell phone in your pocket if you plan to go swimming.
3. Never use a cell phone if you are outside and it is raining or snowing.
4. Avoid buying cell phones with removable parts, either plastic or rubber.
5. Avoid buying cell phones that can be ingested by children.
6. When possible, place your cell phone on a desk and use the speakerphone feature instead of holding it to your ear.
By following these simple guidelines, you won’t have to worry about mobile phones causing health risks. Just remember to be aware of your situation and always think about safety.
