By Mahmoud Bakr When even mobile phone producers tell you to use them sparingly, something's wrong, decides Mahmoud Bakr. The random disposal of mobile phones and their spare parts, especially batteries, can be harmful, according to industry experts. But just as worrisome is the radiation from these phones when in use and even when idle. At a seminar organised by the Egypt Youth Society for Development and Environment in Minya governorate, several experts told the public to use their phones sparingly and keep them away from infants. Pregnant women were also told to avoid resting their phones on or near their bellies. The seminar was held in cooperation with the Mobinil Health and Environment Department and the Department of Civil Education of Youth Directorate in Minya. ICT specialist Hossam Khodeir says that mobile emissions are not the only source of health concern in our time. Noting that radio emissions from the mobile networks needed to be kept within carefully monitored limits, Khodeir notes that mobile transmission stations must meet standard health requirements. According to Khodeir, other health concerns are also paramount, including those related to medical scanning machines, power grid cables, and the electromagnetic waves created by radio and television stations. Even kitchen appliances, when operated, emit an electromagnetic field. And for those who go for energy-saving light bulbs, here is an unpleasant surprise. If broken, says Khodeir, these can be detrimental to health because of the mercury they contain. Sherif Eissa, director of the Mobinil Health and Environment Department, advises the public not to use their mobile sets for more than six minutes and to avoid putting the mobile under the pillow while sleeping. Nabil Makram of Mobinil says that his company seeks to raise health awareness especially in the countryside and is keen to promote the safe disposal of mobile sets and batteries.
