Cell phones and health: recommendations from the State Medical Association of Baden-Württemberg
The positive effects of wireless technologies on the workplace, quality of life, networking, and health care are undeniable. However, these technologies also pose risks to human health. Therefore, the State Medical Association of Baden-Württemberg in Germany supports a series of demands and recommendations, particularly for children, young people, and parents.
- Use cell phones and laptops as little as possible and only for short periods of time.
- “Distance is your friend”: Always keep a minimum distance between your body and mobile devices.
- Do not use mobile devices in “shielded” units, such as cars or public transportation.
- Use the speakerphone option.
- At home, use wired networks for internet access (LAN) whenever possible, and avoid DECT cordless phones.
- Overall, children should use media sparingly and for limited periods of time, preferably with their parents present.
- Unaccompanied use of smartphones should only be allowed from age 12.