Most people are unaware of the potential threats that are associated with electromagnetic fields, or EMFs
While the world today is connected closely due to the internet, being online all the time has its own challenges. If you are in the habit of staying up late and scrolling for hours on your devices, experts say you may leave your Wi-Fi signal switched on through the night. However, can it have a long-term impact on your health?
Doctors say most people are unaware of the potential threats that are associated with electromagnetic fields, or EMFs, which are emitted by wireless devices. Also, Wi-Fi exposure - especially at night while sleeping—can have a small amount of effect on your sleeping patterns.
What is Wi-Fi radiation?
Experts say one of the main concerns surrounding Wi-Fi is its radiation emissions. Wi-fi routers emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of radiofrequency, or RF, waves, which are similar to those emitted by cell phones, microwaves, and other electronic devices.
While RF waves are non-ionising radiation and considered to be safe at low levels, some people are worried about the long-term effects of exposure to wi-fi radiation on human health.
What does scientific research say?
Many studies and research have been conducted to investigate the potential harmful effects of wi-fi radiation on the human body. According to the World Health Organization, RF waves have been classified as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans.' However, it is essential to note that this classification is based on limited evidence, and more research is needed to establish a definitive link between wi-fi radiation and cancer.
Overall, the consensus among the scientific community is that the levels of radiation emitted by wi-fi routers are too low to cause harm to human health.
Studies suggest long-term exposure to Wi-Fi radiation can impact male reproductive health as exposure decreases reproductive function, as was found in male rats. Another reported DNA damage is in rat testes. Additionally, research that involved over 1,000 men found that those who frequently used wireless internet had lower sperm motility compared to wired internet users, although the study did not explore other factors like smoking that could influence these results.
How can you protect yourself from any health issue?
However, in order to alleviate concerns about wi-fi radiation, it is important to follow a few simple and practical radiation protection steps that can reduce your exposure. An effective way is to keep a safe distance from wi-fi routers and devices to reduce the intensity of RF radiation. Along with that, make sure to turn off wi-fi routers when not in use, especially at night when you are sleeping.
Experts also advise using Ethernet cables instead of relying on wi-fi, as they can significantly reduce your exposure to radiation while still allowing you to enjoy a fast and reliable internet connection. Try to reduce your screen time and limit the use of electronic devices, especially close to your body.
You can put your smartphone on aeroplane mode when you are not actively using the internet to minimise your exposure.
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