Cellular Phone Hazards Essay, Research Paper

While the benefits to society are significant, cellular phones and other forms of wireless communication also create distractions that increase a driver’s risk on the road. The rising popularity of cellular phones and the development of on-board navigation systems heighten the concern about driver distraction; and radiation produced from cellular antennas and the effect it has on human health has been brought to our attention.

The number of cellular phones has risen from 350,000 in 1985 to more than 50 million today, a figure expected to double by the year 2000. “As cars more and more become [sic] an extension of the home and office, we are creating a whole new array of potentially hazardous distractions that must be better understood,” said National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) Administrator Ricardo Martinez, MD. (Moulder).

Though there are concerns about driver distraction, the benefits of cell phones definitely outweigh the problems. Quicker conveyance of information about road hazards, congestion or problem drivers allows authorities to respond faster. Also, phone-equipped drivers are able to summon help in the event of mechanical difficulties or other roadside mishaps. Though more research is needed, previous NHTSA studies suggest is a primary or contributing factor in as many as 50 percent of all car crashes (Cellular phone research).

Besides being distracting to drivers, cellular phone radiation is also cause for controversy. Headway National Injuries Association wants mobile phones to be treated in the same way that tobacco is, with public health warnings required until their health effects are known. Some research has shown that use of a cellular phone for more than 20 minutes at a time can increase the risk of certain cancers, along with other health problems. For those who use their phones often, many organizations recommend a blocking device, which will block out any radiation produced by the phone (McIntosh).

Finally, cellular phones have great benefits for society. If people learn to drive safely, with cellular phones in the car, the number of accidents caused by cell phones could be greatly reduced. Though it hasn’t been proven that cell phone radiation causes health problems, some type of warning need to be required until health effects have been shown.