Whether or not the use of cell phones creates health problems has been heavily debated. Most commonly, people believe that the radiation that mobile phones emit lead to the formation of cancer cells. However, despite studies, no link has been shown between the two. While cellular phones do emit radio waves that may be absorbed into the tissue nearest the phone, there is no evidence from studies of cells, animals, or humans that this can cause cancer. In order for cancer to develop, damage to DNA must occur. Ionizing radiation does cause DNA damage, but radio-frequency radiation has not been shown to do the same. Although the studies that have been done show that there is no correlation, expert groups such as the American Cancer Society agree that since society’s use of cell phones is increasing rapidly, new extensive studies should be a priority. They also agree that importance should be placed on finding a definitive answer on the effects of cell phone use (Cell Phones and Cancer Risk).
Theories propose that since children are still growing and developing, they are at a higher risk to develop cancer through cell phone use. They suggest that since children have smaller heads, they have more exposure to the radio-frequency radiation. Also, since they begin use of these technologies young, they will accumulate much more use for longer periods of time than adults. However, while this theory is widely accepted, there is no data to back it up. A study called CEFALO was conducted in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland and included children ages 7 to 19 who had been diagnosed brain tumors between 2004 and 2008. Through their research, it was concluded that while the results did not rule out the possibility of a slight increase in risk, there was no association between cell phone use and the tumors of these children. Currently, the Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology in Spain is conducting a study evaluating technology use, along with other factors in relation to brain tumors in those ages 10 to 24 (Cell Phones and Cancer Risk).
“According to a recent study by Common Sense Media, 38% of babies under 2 have used tablets or smartphones, up from 10% in 2011” (ABC News). Retailers and product developers have seen the growing popularity as a great opportunity, and have put out an expansive variety of items that cater to young electronic users, like the ones above. However, while these products turn advanced technologies into a child’s toy are not the only smartphone-centered products on the market for toddlers. Not only are there now places for smartphones and tablets to be held in strollers, there are also “bouncy seats and potties” that have compartments to hold the electronics while the child sits and plays with it. Since children playing with smartphones and tablets is such a new concept, there is no way to know the neurological effect it may be having on them. Those who make these toys argue that they can be beneficial, and that it is the parent’s responsibly to monitor.
It is no surprise that the use of technology limits interaction with others. During childhood, social interaction is needed for proper development. These interactions allow children to have a sense of self, and identify expectations that other have for them. Through this they learn how to behave in a socially acceptable manner, and skills such as communication, cognitive, and motor skills. Most of these interactions occur during playtime. When children play with others they learn to share and to work with others. They learn how to make new friends, resolve conflict, and respect others (Importance of Social Interaction). Without learning to form these relationships early in life, children will be affected as they get older. If a child spends all of their time forming relationships with a computer screen, they will more than likely be impacted in the years to come. These products for children that promote excessive use of technology should be used in moderation, if at all, in order for a child to develop social skills normally.
The excessive use of “screen time” by children has been directly linked to childhood obesity for some time. In previous years, it was the use of televisions that were a cause for concern. Now, the screens are brought on the go and can be used by children anywhere. Not only does too much screen time lead to obesity, it has also been shown to cause irregular sleeping patterns, which leads to fatigue; behavioral problems and trouble paying attention leading to impaired academic performance; violence due to the nature of certain games and exposure to the media; and limits the time for the healthy, active, creative play that is needed (Children’s Health).
If a child uses a smartphone or tablet often as a toddler, they are more likely to form a habit that will be harder to break as they get older. While smartphone use among children is too new of a concept to know all of its side effects, their use should definitely be kept to a minimum until more facts are uncovered.
Works Cited
“Cell Phones and Cancer Risk – National Cancer Institute.” Cell Phones and Cancer Risk – National Cancer Institute. National Cancer Institute, 24 June 2013. Web. 6 Apr. 2014.
“Children’s Health.” Children and TV: Limiting Your Child’s Screen Time. Mayo Clinic, 16 Aug. 2013. Web. 6 Apr. 2014.
“Importance of Social Interaction.” Child Family Services. Stanislaus County Office of Education, Web. 6 Apr. 2014.
“New Warning About Toddlers and Smartphones, Tablets.” ABC News. ABC News Network, Web. 6 Apr. 2014.