ICT Samachar
Smartphones have become a major part of our lives. We may survive for some time without food, but living without a smartphone and the internet feels almost impossible today.
While smartphones offer numerous benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is radiation. Many people believe that mobile radiation can pose health risks. Here is an overview of mobile and tower radiation, their potential effects on health, and how to check radiation levels on your phone.
What Is Mobile Tower Radiation?
For devices to connect with each other, a network is required. Mobile phones rely on telecommunications towers installed in various locations by service providers to ensure network coverage.
In terms of radiation, there are two types:
-
Radiation emitted from mobile towers
-
Radiation emitted from mobile phones
You cannot directly measure tower radiation yourself, but you can check your phone’s radiation level.
Tower radiation does not usually involve direct and continuous close contact with the body, so its impact is generally considered lower compared to mobile phone radiation. However, since mobile phones remain close to us—often 24 hours a day—their radiation exposure may be more significant.
Mobile phones emit a type of electromagnetic radiation (radiofrequency waves). This is classified as non-ionizing radiation, meaning it does not carry enough energy to directly damage DNA like X-rays or gamma rays.
Health Concerns Linked to Mobile Radiation
There have been concerns about potential health effects of prolonged mobile radiation exposure, including:
-
Headaches and reduced concentration
-
Eye strain
-
Increased stress
-
Sleep disturbances
-
Possible reproductive health concerns
-
Hearing-related issues
Some claims suggest links to brain cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, or infertility. However, major global health organizations, including the World Health Organization, state that current scientific evidence does not conclusively confirm severe health effects from mobile radiation within recommended exposure limits. Research is ongoing.
How to Check Your Phone’s Radiation Level
You can check your smartphone’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) value by dialing:
*#07#
After dialing this code, your screen will display radiation-related information. SAR levels are typically shown in two categories:
-
Head SAR – Radiation level when the phone is held near your head during calls
-
Body SAR – Radiation level when the phone is carried close to your body (such as in a pocket)
What Is the Safe SAR Limit?
SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) measures the rate at which the body absorbs radiofrequency energy from a device.
In the United States and some other countries, the SAR limit is 1.6 watts per kilogram (1.6 W/kg) averaged over 1 gram of tissue. In Europe, the limit is 2.0 W/kg averaged over 10 grams of tissue.
These limits are tested at a small distance (usually around 10–15 mm) from the body.
If your device exceeds the approved SAR limit, it may not meet regulatory safety standards. However, most commercially available smartphones comply with international safety guidelines.
How to Reduce Exposure
-
Use earphones or speaker mode during calls
-
Avoid keeping the phone in your pocket for long periods
-
Do not sleep with the phone next to your head
-
Use airplane mode when not needed
-
Avoid long calls in low-signal areas (phones emit more power when signal is weak)
Conclusion
Smartphones are an essential part of modern life, but it is wise to use them responsibly. While current scientific evidence does not conclusively prove severe health risks within safety limits, taking simple precautionary steps can help minimize exposure. Staying informed and using technology wisely is the best approach to protecting your health.
