Sleep Better: Is Your Phone a Health Risk?
In today's tech-driven world, many of us find ourselves sleeping with our mobile phones close at hand. This habit has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with radiation and its links to serious conditions like brain tumors and cancer. However, Dr. Arundhati De, a Consultant in Radiation Oncology at Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata, provides reassurance by stating that there is no scientific evidence to support these alarming claims.
Dr. De emphasizes that, as of now, radiofrequency waves emitted from mobile phones have not been proven to cause any harm, including cancer. Large-scale studies conducted globally continue to monitor long-term mobile phone use, and the data does not indicate an increased cancer risk from keeping a phone near the head while sleeping.
While concerns over cancer may be unfounded, the real issue lies in how our smartphones disrupt sleep. Modern devices emit constant light, sound, and notifications that can stimulate the brain, even if we don’t consciously respond to them. Dr. De points out that this brain stimulation can prevent us from fully relaxing, making it difficult to achieve deep, restorative sleep.
Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to various health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and reduced overall well-being. Adequate sleep is crucial for brain health, hormonal balance, and emotional regulation. Thus, sleep hygiene is just as important as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Many people believe that turning off their phone screens will not affect their sleep quality. However, even with screens off, the repeated disruptions can keep the brain from entering deep sleep and REM sleep, both essential for recovery and rejuvenation.
Fortunately, experts suggest that we don’t need to eliminate our phones entirely; rather, we should use them more mindfully at night. Simple steps like placing the phone a little further away while sleeping can significantly enhance the quality of our rest. Dr. De advises that a good night’s sleep is vital for a healthy life, and protecting our sleep quality should be a priority.
In conclusion, while sleeping with your phone near your head may not pose a cancer risk, it can negatively impact your sleep quality. In a world where restful sleep is becoming increasingly scarce, making small adjustments to our phone habits can lead to greater overall well-being and a more refreshed feeling each day.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
