Skip to main content

California says your cell phone could possibly be dangerous

We love and enjoy using our mobile phones. For years, people have talked about the negative effects of using cellphones; specifically regarding overuse and how it could have an impact on public health down the line. These mobile phones are, after all, emitting radio frequency energy and radio waves, so there was always the potential and possibility to cause some sort of health risks and concerns.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has just weighed in on this debate, releasing information that outlines the multiple studies that have been released on the matter. These studies suggest that the RF signals emitted from mobile phones could cause brain cancer, headaches, memory loss, and even loss of sleep. The guidelines are not calling for the end of cellphones, nor are they outright saying that mobile phones are dangerous. They are simply providing some suggestions as to how one could reduce their exposure to this RF energy.

Recommended Videos

“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 cell phones,” according to CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith. “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.”

The guidelines go on to suggest carrying your mobile device in a backpack, purse or briefcase, as opposed to your pocket, which most people do. Another strategy is keeping the phone just a few feet away from you while you’re using it. For example, if you’re talking to someone on the phone, use a headset or speakerphone option, rather than holding the device to your head. Then there is always the option of texting, which means the phone is away from your face.

The guidelines also mention the avoidance of using your phone when it is sending out high levels of radio frequency energy. There’s a lot of RF energy being emitted when you’re streaming something on your phone or sending large files.

Stephen Jordan
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Stephen is a freelance writer and blogger, as well as an aspiring screenwriter. Working in front of a computer and digesting…
OnePlus makes Apple Watch owners jealous with novel charging cable
Apple owners are having to pay a lot more for the privilage
A OnePlus smartwatch being connected to the POGO pin on the OnePlus 2-in-1 charging cable

Update 07/16: we've now included mention of Nomad's 2-in-1 charger for iPhone and Apple Watch

Look, I get it. Charging cables aren't exactly the sexiest product in the tech world and I'd forgive you for rolling your eyes - but OnePlus has introduced a new cable at a price point which makes it way more accessible than rivals.

Read more
Google Pixel 10 launch date confirmed with multiple devices teased
The Pixel 10 launch is just a few weeks away
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9's screens.

Invites have gone out for the Google Pixel 10 launch event, along with a tease that there will be more than one product announced.

Google will hold its Made by Google event on August 20, with the invite reading "you're invited to an in-person Made by Google show where we'll introduce the latest additions to our Pixel portfolio of devices." The event kicks off at 1pm ET, 10am PT.

Read more
This leaked iPhone 17 Pro color has me excited for the iPhone 17 Pro
A close-up of the cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro.

I've been reporting on technology for almost twenty years, and I vividly recall the early years of the smartphone industry when companies like Nokia pushed the boundaries when it came to smartphone colors. 

Rather than the less exciting neutral colors that have become standard in the industry — gray, white, silver, and gold — Nokia launched phones in bright red, yellow, and other vibrant colors. Yes, there were still the same standardized options, but you also had bright neon colors, such as the yellow Lumia 1020 or the orange Nokia N8. 

Read more