California health officials advise caution against cellphone radiation

Dominique Mosbergen, HUFFPOST

The state recommends these steps to reduce exposure to cellphone radiation:

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.

Read the California Department of Public Health guidance in full here.

The California Department of Public Health has issued its first guidelines for cellphone usage, advising people to reduce exposure to their phones’ radio frequency energy. The department cited preliminary research suggesting a link between human health and the “long-term, high use” of cellphones, but stressed that studies haven’t definitively concluded whether cellphone radiation is harmful.

“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 cellphones,” said Dr. Karen Smith, director of the department. “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.”

Cellphones have become ubiquitous in America, where 95 percent of the population owns one. The devices emit radio frequency energy when they send and receive signals. Though research hasn’t concluded for certain whether exposure to this energy is detrimental to health, some studies have suggested a link between frequent exposure to cellphone radiation and health problems, including low sperm count, impaired memory and hearing, and an increased risk of cancer.