In Unusual Move, Health Officials Warn About Cell Phones

CALIFORNIA -- In an unusual move, California health officials this week issued guidelines on cell phone exposure. The state Department of Public Health said it was providing the guidance despite the fact that "the scientific community has not reached a consensus on the risks of cell phone use, research suggests long-term, high use may impact human health."

The new guidance includes steps both adults and children could take to reduce exposure to radio frequency energy from cell phones. That includes:

• Keeping the phone away from the body
• Reducing cell phone use when the signal is weak
• Reducing the use of cell phones to stream audio or video, or to download or upload large files
• Keeping the phone away from the bed at night
• Removing headsets when not on a call
• Avoiding products that claim to block radio frequency energy. These products may actually increase your exposure.

"Although the science is still evolving, there are concerns among some public health professionals and members of the public regarding long-term, high use exposure to the energy emitted by cell phones," said Karen Smith, director of the Department of Public Health. "We know that simple steps, such as not keeping your phone in your pocket and moving it away from your bed at night, can help reduce exposure for both children and adults."

Health officials said that cell phone use has increased dramatically in recent years with about 95 percent of Americans owning a cell phone, and 12 percent relying on their smartphones for everyday Internet access.

The average age when children get their first phone is now just 10 years old, and a majority of young people keep their phones on or near them most of the day and while they sleep, the state said.

"Children's brains develop through the teenage years and may be more affected by cell phone use," Smith said. "Parents should consider reducing the time their children use cell phones and encourage them to turn the devices off at night."

--Photo via Pixabay/DariuszSankowski