The cell phone has changed the way we communicate and in doing so has become an indispensible part of our lives. We rely on it for most of our communication needs: email, text messages, scheduling, family photos, Twitter and Facebook updates and of course, phone calls. We naturally want to keep such an important tool close at hand as the thought of not being in constant communication is unfathomable. So many of us attach our cell phone to our belt and keep it right on our hip. Despite its obvious miscue as a fashion statement, it’s convenient and secure. It shows the world you are technologically savvy. However, like all good things, it must be done in moderation.

An October 26, 2009 U.S. News & World Report article, “Cell Phone May Reduce Bone Density in Hips,” reports that excessive wearing of the cell phone on your hip may have consequences.  Based on research from Turkey, the bone density of the pelvis was reduced due to excessive exposure to the electromagnetic field emitted by the cell phone. The research was conducted on young men who constantly wore their cell phone on their belt for an average of six years. Keep in mind, the subjects had older generation cell phones which operated on a lower frequency. With the introduction of 3G and 4G networks, today’s higher frequency phones emit even more energy.  The industry will no doubt address this issue with design improvements or safer carrying cases to reduce exposure.

At Mind & Media, we use communication to affect change but sometimes it is necessary to affect change in the way we use the communication tools. Who knows, a lead-lined fanny pack may come into vogue. But until then keep your cell phone away from your body as much as possible. Or alternate the position of your belt clip frequently.

Image courtesy Amarand Agasi