Jugend und Smartphones

The German Federal Office for Radiation Protection interviewed 2,500 children and teenagers about their habits in using their cell phone. One element was the question of whether the radiation intensity of the phone model can influence the purchasing behavior of children and adolescents.

The survey showed, however, that a possible health risk for the respondents when buying is rather secondary. Only one in three 6- to 13-year olds (35 percent) is concerned about cell phone radiation.

Among 14- to 17-year-olds, almost one in every five (18 percent) has heard about radiation exposure associated with mobile phones. however, when it comes to the purchase most of them (99 percent) of both age groups look at: price, functionality, speed and design – and not on the levels of radiation.

In addition, the majority of those asked, almost all (93 per cent) of 14- to 17-year-olds and the majority (58 percent) of 6- to 13-year-olds indicated that they kept their phone close at hand not just during the day but also at night.

However, Children and teenagers aged 6 to 13 years use their cell phone less to call, but more to play games (66 percent), send text messages or instant messaging (57 percent) and listen to music (52 percent).

This may mean less exposure to radiation but only if the widely used WiFi is deactivated. The same goes for Bluetooth, mobile data etc.

A conscious use of wireless technology can do a world of good late rin life for today’s young people – why not bring up the subject in the family (again)?

 

Source (German): http://www.rp-online.de/digitales/smartphones/strahlenbelastung-vom-handy-ist-fuer-jugendliche-zweitrangig-aid-1.4464598 

Source: dpa