Cell phones more dangerous than smoking?

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By Katlin Gotch – Photography Editor

America is a wireless nation. The addiction spills down to college campuses, and the University of the Cumberlands is no exception. A stroll around campus will tell just how dependent students are. Three out of every six students has a cell phone out. Can they be blamed? This is a communication generation, but the danger of cell phone use is becoming more and more noticed. In fact according to a recent study by Dr. Vini Khurana, cell phones may kill more people than cigarette smoke this year.

It has been clear for some time that cell phones present a risk on the road. Studies show that driving while talking on a cell phone can be more harmful that driving while under the influence of alcohol. Many states have already begun to crack down on the use of cell phones while operating a car.

However, there is another risk thought to be created by cell phones, and this one is a little more difficult to contend with. For many years it has been thought that cell phones increase the use of cancer, particularly brain tumors after 10 years of use.

Wireless phones, like the ones seen everywhere on Cumberland’s campus transmit with the same radiation found in microwaves, also suspected to increase cancer risks. This radiation is transferred between the phone’s antenna and the base radio tower. Thus it is also widely thought that residents of rural areas, with fewer towers, are at a higher risk, because more radiation is required to transmit the signal the greater distance.

Several studies indicate that an individual’s cancer risk is increased if they use their wireless phone for one hour a day for a period of ten years. The cancer cells are most often found on the side of the head where the individual holds the phone. Alternatives, such as hands-free sets, have often been suggested.

So what is the risk to Cumberland students? The studies seem to indicate there is a significant risk. The question remains however, is it enough to keep these technologically connected students from using their cell phones? It isn’t likely.

Photo: Corbis.com

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