It was quite a few years ago when the first ones were launched. cellphones and a little less since the arrival of the first smartphonespractically every adult has one and now even children have their own technology.
Which has undoubtedly led us to question whether the prolonged use of technology and connections like WiFi has some negative impact on the healthFirst of all, it has been confirmed that it does modify people’s posture and blue light damages eyesight.
Now, a study carried out by researchers from the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) has raised alarms about the possible damage to health that could be caused by prolonged exposure to electromagnetic waves emitted by devices such as cell phones and WiFi routers.
In the investigation, which was carried out over five years, exposed more than 300 mice to different levels of radiation similar to that emitted by second-generation cell phones and WiFi routers. The preliminary results, still pending publication, are alarming:
Oxidative stress: A significant increase in free radical levels was observed, which could lead to cellular damage and chronic diseases.
Testicular and sperm damage: Mice exposed to electromagnetic waves showed alterations in the quality and quantity of sperm, which could affect fertility.
Neuropsychiatric disorders: Changes in brain activity and abnormal behaviors, such as hyperactivity and anxiety, were detected.
Apoptosis: An increase in programmed cell death was observed, which could weaken the immune system and increase the risk of disease.
DNA damage: Damage was found to the genetic material of the exposed mice, which could increase the risk of cancer and other diseases.
Effects on development: Mice exposed during their fetal and postnatal development showed alterations in their growth and physical and motor development.
While these results are concerning, it is important to note that this is an animal study and more research is needed to determine if the same effects are seen in humans. However, the IPN findings echo the concerns of the World Health Organization (WHO)which has classified radio frequency electromagnetic waves as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”
Why shouldn’t we use our cell phone while it’s charging?
Although there is no absolute prohibition, using your cell phone while charging is not the most recommended practice for several reasons:
1. Risk of overheating:
– Using the phone generates additional heat, which adds to the heat produced during charging.
– Excessive overheating can damage the battery, shortening its useful life and even causing explosions in extreme cases.
2. Increased battery wear:
– When you use your cell phone while it is charging, the battery works twice as hard: to charge itself and to power running applications and processes.
– This increases stress on the battery, accelerating its deterioration and reducing its charge storage capacity.
3. Slowdown of loading:
– Phone power is divided between charging and use, which slows down the charging process.
– This can be especially noticeable if you are using power-hungry applications, such as games or videos.
4. Damage to charging port:
– Handling the phone while it is connected to the charger may bend or fray the cable or charging port.
– This can cause connection failures and even permanent damage to the device.
5. Health risks (inconclusive):
Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to electromagnetic waves emitted by your phone while charging could have negative health effects, such as sleep disturbances or headaches.
However, the scientific evidence in this regard is still uncertain and more research is needed to confirm it.
Although it is not an imminent danger, avoiding using your cell phone while charging is a recommended practice to prolong battery life, optimize the charging process, and minimize possible risks to the device and health.
Recommendations:
– Charge your phone when you are not using it.
– Use a good quality charger and cable.
– Avoid exposing your phone to extreme temperatures.
– Remove the phone case while charging.
– Keep the charging port clean and dry.
– If you notice that the battery becomes too hot or swells, stop using the phone and consult a specialist.
– Remember that taking care of your cell phone is a long-term investment.
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