CELL PHONES & ELECTROMAGNETIC
HEALTH HAZARDS
CELL PHONES & ELECTROMAGNETIC
HEALTH HAZARDS
Ours is known as the age of technology. We're able to communicate at lightning speed, thanks to computers, facsimiles and mobile phones. Undeveloped lands are evolving into urban centers, draped with power lines, a source considered necessary for life in the 1990s and beyond. We can cook in minutes, thanks to microwaves, and view intricate parts of our internal systems, thanks to x-rays, MRIs and other technology.
But what does this mean to you? Our environment is filled with electromagnetic fields and radio frequency radiation that did not exist at all 100 years ago. Thus, it makes sense to be aware of what is out there, learn about it, and be able to detect it. You can do this with a meter such as the CellSensorTM.
What is Radio Frequency (RF) radiation from mobile phones?
There are currently over 195 million mobile phones in use around the world and that number is expected to exceed the 450 million mark by the year 2,001
Although the systems in use differ in the frequency with which the phone handset communicates with the base, they all share the same fundamental principle. The phone converts voice into impulses which are transmitted over radio waves at frequencies ranging from approximately 800 MHZ (eight hundred million cycles per second) to over 1,900 MHZ.
Radio frequency (RF) radiation is one of several types of electromagnetic radiation. Electromagnetic radiation consists of waves of electric and magnetic energy moving together through space. These waves are generated by the movement of electrical charges. For example, the movement of charge in a transmitting radio antenna, i.e., creates electromagnetic waves that radiate away from the antenna and can be picked up by a receiving antenna.
What are Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Electromagnetic Fields?
The CellSensorTM also focuses on those fields generated by AC electrical current, which pulsates at 50 to 60 cycles each second (also known as Hertz or frequency of the signal). At this frequency, electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are referred to as Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) or power frequency EMFs. We'll use the ELF label in this booklet.
Invisible and odorless, ELFs exist as lines of force surrounding anything relying on electricity. We're continually exposed to them, merely by being near appliances, computers, home wiring and power lines.
ELFs are made up of two components: electric and magnetic fields. Voltage creates electric fields. These fields are strongest near their sources and can be blocked by most objects, such as walls or trees. Magnetic fields diminish with distance; however, the similarities end there. Current creates magnetic fields, which penetrate any barrier except ferrous metals.
What you should know about ELFs
Amazing, fast-paced, ever-evolving technology is progress. But progress often comes with a price. The price might be negative effects on our health.
Many studies suggesting links between ELFs and illness, such as cancer, have been published during the years. Most of the studies revolve around the effects of magnetic fields on cells and populations of children and adults.
Scientists are studying the relationship between illness and ELF exposure. Many of the studies done to date on children and workers have shown an increase in various forms of cancer among those exposed to higher-than-average magnetic fields. Still, the evidence is inconclusive. Brain and breast cancer studies, while controversial, have also shown some instances in which the rate of cancer is higher among those living or working near high voltage power lines.
Recently, research studying the link between the body's production of melatonin (a natural hormone, which regulates sleep and other functions) and ELFs has surfaced as an important mechanism. Called the "melatonin hypothesis," the theory is that low-level power line frequency magnetic fields in the 50 to 60 Hertz range may reduce the pineal gland's production of melatonin, which may suppress the body's ability to fight cancer cells.
Many concur that extreme exposure to ELFs is unhealthy and should be avoided. However, we lack clear guidelines. So, it becomes your responsibility to take your ELF exposure into your own hands. As more evidence uncovers the truth about ELFs, it's prudent to protect you and your family, while enjoying all that technology has to offer.
What you should know about Radio frequency Radiation?
A lot, especially if you use a cell phone. Recent research has pointed towards RF radiation being responsible for breaks in DNA strands at a cellular level in tissues exposed to radiation levels experienced by cell phone users.
Current research is being led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the FDA is pressing for additional research to be conducted under their guidance. Progress in research will be slow and in the meantime, it makes sense to exercise prudent avoidance. Use your cell phone as little as possible. Try to keep the antenna as far away from your head as possible. Use a normal phone whenever possible. Use a portable hands-free kit if you use your phone while you work and a car one if you use your cell phone in the car.
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