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Start for freeIn today's digital age, our homes are filled with devices that make our lives easier, but they also come with a hidden danger: radiation exposure. Joe Sandri, VP of Regulatory Affairs and General Counsel at the Environmental Health Trust, sheds light on this pressing issue and offers valuable advice on how to protect ourselves and our families from the potential harm caused by radiation from everyday devices, especially cell phones.
Understanding the Risk
The convenience of having cell phones within arm's reach around the clock has become the norm. However, Sandri cautions against the habit of holding phones too close to our bodies, particularly our heads. Cell phone manufacturers themselves advise against this practice in the fine print of their user manuals, a warning that many of us overlook. This caution arises from findings that cell phones can exceed even the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) admittedly outdated safety guidelines when held just two millimeters away from the head.
Suppressed Data Comes to Light
Sandri highlights a concerning issue: critical data on the risks of radiation exposure had been suppressed for years. Through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, suppressed studies have come to light, revealing that previous lawsuits and public discussions on this topic had not been fully informed. This lack of transparency underscores the need for consumers to be more vigilant about the potential dangers of their devices.
The Hidden Warnings in Your Phone
Most users are unaware of the safety recommendations buried deep within their phone settings. To find these, one must navigate to the legal and regulatory section, then to RF exposure, where the advice to keep the phone at least five millimeters away from the body is stated. Sandri points out the inadequacy of this method of communication, comparing it unfavorably to the more conspicuous health warnings on cigarette packages.
Biological and Thermal Damage
The potential damage from cell phones is not limited to the risk of exceeding FCC guidelines. Studies have shown that both biological and thermal effects can result from the radiation emitted by these devices. The comparison of cell phones to microwave ovens in terms of their operating principles is particularly alarming, underscoring the seriousness of the issue.
Sleep Disruption and Health Risks
Sandri advises against keeping cell phones near us while we sleep, suggesting that leaving them in another room is the safest option. Not only does the radiation disrupt our sleep patterns, but it also poses long-term health risks, including endocrine disruption from both the artificial light and radiation. Furthermore, studies, including those by the National Institutes of Health, have linked radiation exposure to increased risks of lung cancer and chromosomal damage.
Key Takeaways for Cell Phone Users
The main message from Joe Sandri is clear: keep your cell phones away from your body. This advice is especially pertinent for parents who should be cautious about their children's exposure to cell phones. Sandri also encourages consumers to demand safer phones from manufacturers, suggesting that the industry should prioritize safety as a competitive edge.
In conclusion, while cell phones and other devices have become indispensable in our daily lives, it is crucial to be aware of and mitigate the potential health risks associated with their radiation. By following the expert advice shared by Joe Sandri, we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from unnecessary exposure.
For more insights and detailed information, you can watch the full discussion with Joe Sandri here.
