UNAIR NEWS – Electromagnetic radiation from cell phones is often claimed to be dangerous. Several studies have even revealed some of its health risks. However, have we ever taken into account this electromagnetic radiation generated by cell phones?
Smartphones are often attached to our hands every day. However, UNAIR Faculty of Public Health (FKM) lecturer Sho’im Hidayat, dr., MS said that exposure to electromagnetic radiation from cell phones is in the weakest category.
“Smartphones, radar and television are included in the radio frequency group. It means that the destructive energy or force produced is the weakest, “he said in an online interview some time ago.
According to Sho’im, based on their destructive power, at least electromagnetic waves can be divided into several types. First, from the highest, called Gamma rays with a wavelength of about 10 -7 meters. Next, X rays and ultraviolet rays.
Furthermore, there are also visible rays, infrared rays, and microwave rays. Radio frequency rays are at the lowest level with a wavelength of more than 1 meter.
“In electromagnetic waves, the energy produced depends on the wavelength. As this wavelength varies, the destructive power of an electromagnetic wave varies, ”explained Sho’im.
Meanwhile, regarding headaches that often arise from using devices, Sho’im emphasized that the cause is most likely not electromagnetic radiation. He continued, it could happen because of a less ergonomic work attitude.
However, Sho’im revealed that some electromagnetic radiation needs to be watched out for, such as X-rays and ultraviolet rays.
He explained, X rays have the potential to ionize chemical molecules in the body. It can lead to gene mutations which in turn lead to cancer. “It can happen if there is long exposure, more than 10 years. Although the exposure level is small, “explained Sho’im.
On the other hand, added Sho’im, ultraviolet rays have risks of causing acute damage to the eye. “Staring at the sun for too long or capturing the ultraviolet rays produced by electric welding can increase the risk of eye damage,” he explained.
In the end Sho’im emphasized that the electromagnetic radiation generated by cell phones is not a cause for concern. According to him, if a headache appears, it is more important to improve work attitude so it can be more comfortable and does not make muscles stiff.
“These waves (electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, ed) are weak anyway. No need to worry,” he stated. (*)
Author: Erika Eight Novanty
Editor : Binti Q. Masruroh
