One of the most undeniable truths of today is as kids learn how to walk and speak, they also learn how to unlock mobile phones and iPad. With the availability of various Over the Top (OTT) platforms on mobile phones and tablets, kids have become vulnerable to radiation risks. Owing to many pieces of research conducted on the topic, we know the following:
- Children absorb EMR at a higher rate
- Digital dementia is a common feature among school children
- Reduce the time of access to EMR emitting devices
Radiation Risk Was Not A Serious Issue Till Recently
Various parties have always underplayed the effects of radiation from mobile phones and other wireless devices. But the truth never hides.
Devices like mobile phones, wi-fi, tablets, and smart televisions, when they function, emit radio waves called Electromagnetic Radiations (EMR). The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) as a possible human carcinogen in 2011. Since then, there has been increasing interest regarding human exposure to RF‐EMR sources and potential health effects.
Exposure to EMR Creates Serious Health Problems for Children
Studies have shown that children when exposed to EMR absorb more of the radiation when compared to adults because the tissues of their brains are more absorbent, their skulls are thinner and their relative size is smaller. Constant exposure to EMR poses a greater threat to the developing brain and nervous system. It also increases the risk of cancer and loss of immunity. The average latency time between the first exposure and diagnosis of a tumor can be decades. And thus tumors induced in children may not be diagnosed until well into adulthood. A modern-day epidemic Digital dementia is commonly seen among school kids.
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Global Research on The Seriousness of EMR Exposure
A 2010 study of mobile phone radiation noted that “in general and on average, children suffer a higher exposure of their brain regions than adults.” This is because children have proportionally smaller heads and brains, yet receive the same levels of cell phone radiation as adults.
Researches have also suggested that mobile phone exposure could affect children’s behavior. Children constantly in the vicinity of radiation display hyperactive nature. They also have emotional or behavioral problems, including trouble getting along with other kids. A 2014 article reviewing studies on children and their mobile phone use found that the younger the child, the greater the risk of brain cancer and brain tumors.
The Way Ahead – Approach and Solutions
Rather than panic, parents should use this information as a reminder to limit their children’s screen time. Also, we can limit the use of mobile phones and other similar gadgets by children. Most services provided by the OTT platforms are top-notch but their end objective grabs new eyeballs retaining the existing member base. As parents, we have to take preventive measures for our kids and limit their exposure to EMR. Such measures entail some basics like keeping a safe distance from your mobile phone, reducing the time they spend on wireless devices, and striking a balance between the online and offline realms. A comprehensive list detailing all the tips and tricks a parent can take to limit their child’s exposure to EMR is a bookmark that should be a part of every individual’s parenting handbook.
Also Read: Harmful Effects of Mobile Radiation – How To Protect Yourself
