New Delhi, August 14, 2017: A number of studies have associated electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation exposure with serious health concerns, including the risk of cancer, miscarriage and a higher risk of leukemia among children. However, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), "current evidence does not confirm the existence of any health consequences from exposure to the low-level electromagnetic field."
Manas Ganguly, Executive Partner and Founder, Brightsandz Technologies told ANI, "As much as Internet and telecommunication have become the part of our modern lives, cell towers have become a feature of city skylines. The profusion of cellular technology and cell towers has caused a concern on the health impact of radiation of humans".
Recently, Lok Sabha was informed that a total of 284 mobile towers in India were discovered to emit radiation levels above the authorized limit.
The Telecom minister Manoj Sinha stated in a written reply to the LS, "During the audit carried out by TERM Cells, total 284 base transceiver stations (BTSs) installed on various mobile towers by various telecom service providers (TSPs) have been found exceeding the prescribed electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation limits as on 20 June 2017."
According to Manas cell phone towers are the most evident sources of radiation. Furthermore, there are other sources of radiation in our homes, offices and other living spaces that we are unaware of.
He continued, "With the advent of 24*7 hyper connectivity, IoT, Smart homes, Home automation, our exposure to such radiation is only going to compound manifold. Depending on our lifestyles and habits, we have multiplied our EMF Radiation exposures from 100X (hundred-fold) to 10,00,000X (million-fold)."
He noted, "While the evidence linking EMF radiation to these health hazards is scratchy and not well formed, a precautionary approach will be prudent. The risk from EMF is compounded by the fact that it is invisible and insensible."
According to Manas, it is equivalent to a mini-microwave that you are carrying around.
It is stated that radiation from mobile phone increases exponentially in low coverage areas or shadow zones. Cell phones radiate at close quarters to the brain indulging users in the highest risk.
Hack: The use of earpiece will help negate the side effect of using cell phone up to 98%
A WiFi after-all is synonymous to a mini cell tower. It is noted that WiFis are rarely switched off. And hence the risk profile is hugely involved. We have a low in- consistent and perpetual radiation exposure.
Hack: It is advised to switch the WiFi off when not in use. In addition to it, one can also switch to the wired internet wherever possible.
Stabilizer is the highest source of in-premise EMF. Also, the older these appliances are, the greater the EMF. These devices create high EMF even at a distance of 3 to 5 feet.
Hack: Remove the stabilizer from your bedroom and relocate to any covered area outside the home.
Electrical circuitry inside houses can create a consistent EMF.
Hack: To avoid the shortfalls of an electric circuit, old wiring needs to be changed with a new one.
These devices have an extremely localized EMF and are more prone to produce damage due to closeness during-use. The tip/nozzle of these devices can create up to 70/100mG EMF.
Hack: Avoid using the devices most of the time. While using the hair dryer, maintain at least 1 feet distance between the head and the nozzle.
Most of our cities and colonies/RWAs have old power distribution facilities. Such set up has a high EMF which could be significantly high as well and are perpetual in nature.
Hack: Maintain a minimum distance of 50-100 feet from such sources.
Laptops carry both radiations as well as EMF profile. The bottom of a laptop has a very high EMF exposure at point of contact which can be harmful to adult fertility
Hack: Use a laptop radiation shield to reduce exposure to devise radiation from laptops.
Microwave ovens despite being "sealed" for radiation, still leak heavy radiation. Moreover, they leak more radiation as they get older. It was attributed that an operational microwave is a potential risk to the person working in the kitchen.
Hack: It is advised not to use a microwave for long periods and. Always use a Microwave radiation shield.