J Korean Med Assoc.  2015 Jan;58(1):42-48. 10.5124/jkma.2015.58.1.42.

Smartphones and health

• Myung SK

• KMID: 2149281
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2015.58.1.42

Abstract

The use of smartphones has rapidly increased over the past few years. With the increasing use of smartphones, concern has been raised about the potential harmful effects on human health. In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans (group 2B) based on an increased risk for glioma associated with wireless phone use (i.e. mobile phones). In addition, several meta-analyses of case-control studies reported an increased risk of tumors associated with the use of mobile phones. Moreover, it has been reported that the overuse of mobile phones is associated with reproductive risks, addiction, and phantom vibration and ringing syndrome. Further large prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these associations. Until clear evidence is available that the use of smartphones is safe, their overuse should be avoided.

Keyword

Smartphones; Health

MeSH Terms

Case-Control Studies
Cellular Phone
Cohort Studies
Electromagnetic Fields
Glioma
Humans
International Agencies
Vibration
World Health Organization

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