More than 250 scientists have signed a petition calling for international public health organization to create stronger guidelines on wireless devices.
Health Effects Of EMF Exposure
In a letter addressed to the heads of the United Nations and the World Health Organization, a group of scientists expressed concern over the public's increased exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by electric and wireless devices.
They cited scientific studies that showed the ill effects of EMF, which include increased cancer risk, genetic damages, neurological disorders and learning deficits, among others.
Apple's Airpods Emit EMF Radiation
The scientists' appeal comes amid increasing popularity of wireless devices such as Apple's Airpods, which use Bluetooth technology and emits EMF radiation.
The Airpods has become Apple's most popular accessory. In 2017, Apple sold between 14 and 16 million pairs of AirPods and analysts expect the number will reach 50 to 55 million this year.
"Over 1 billion iPhone users worldwide offer great potential growth opportunities for AirPods," TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo wrote in a research note released last year.
Airpods and similar devices comply with the legal limits for EMF radio waves but the scientists who signed the petition worry that the guidelines are too lax. They called for stronger guidelines and demanded that the public be informed about the risks posed by radio waves.
"By not taking action, the WHO is failing to fulfill its role as the preeminent international public health agency," the experts wrote.
Dangers Of Using Wireless Headphones
Experts say the use of wireless earphones such as the Airpod is particularly concerning because the device is worn in the ear canal.
University of Colorado biochemistry professor Jerry Phillips, who is one of the scientists who signed the petition, explained that placing the Airpods in the ear canal exposes the tissues in the head to high amounts of radio-frequency radiation. Phillips said this poses a risk for tumors and other conditions linked to abnormal cell functioning.
