Increasing use Bluetooth devices has led many to wonder about possible adverse health effects.
Bluetooth devices are small headsets for cellular phones that clip directly to the ear, allowing the cell phone user to speak on the phone without needing to hold the phone. Because these tiny receivers are at a close proximity to the head, there has been some debate about the safety of Bluetooth sets and continual radiofrequency (RF) exposure.
Level of RF Exposure
The higher RF emissions of a cell phone antenna could pose more of a threat than Bluetooth sets.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), studies do not show a strong link between the degree of RF emissions caused by cellular phones and cancer in humans. Some studies in animals are still being analyzed for a potential human link, but WHO maintains there is minimal risk, if any. Additionally, the University of California Irvine points out that Bluetooth headsets operate on an even lower degree of RF emissions, meaning that they actually can increase the safety of cell phones by keeping the higher emissions of the cell phone antenna away from the human head.
Electromagnetic Interference
WHO does indicate that those using pacemakers or other similar technology may be at a risk of electromagnetic interruption from cell phone use. However, if Bluetooth technology is able to keep the cell phone at a further distance from the user -- such as in a bag or briefcase and not on the body itself -- the lower frequencies may again defray some of that risk.
Driving Safety
For better reaction time behind the wheel, avoid in depth phone calls while driving.
While cell phone manufacturers tend to market Bluetooth devices and other hands-free equipment as safer to use while driving, a study done in 2001 by the University of Utah indicates that, whether using hand-held or hands-free devices, people who were talking on the phone showed delayed reaction times to events occurring on the road. It seems safe to assume, then, that simply being hands-free does not necessarily decrease the safety risk of talking on the phone while driving.
Tags: cell phone, Bluetooth devices, while driving, Bluetooth sets, cell phone antenna, cellular phones, degree emissions
