The Radio Frequency Directorate says keeping your phone a certain distance from your ear, or placing it in your pocket or bag when not in use, helps reduce the amount of energy absorbed into your body.
Mobile phones work by sending and receiving signals from base stations. When sending signals, RF energy - a form of electromagnetic radiation - from the phone's antenna will be emitted in all directions, both into the user's head and body. Even when using wifi or Bluetooth, the phone still emits RF energy, although at a lower level.
According to the World Health Organization, when using a mobile phone, the body's tissues will be subjected to a heating effect due to the influence of RF energy from the mobile phone. Research by the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields shows that, at a frequency of 900 MHz, when the distance between the phone and the head is 0 cm (direct contact), 66% of the energy is absorbed by the hand, 28% by the head, and only 6% is emitted for communication.
At a distance of 2 cm, the energy absorption levels are 74%, 14%, and 12%, respectively. At a distance of 6 cm, this index is 75%, 6%, and 19%.
The Radio Frequency Department - Ministry of Science and Technology said that RF energy is not as strong or dangerous as other types of ionizing radiation, such as X-rays or ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. However, users can still change their device usage habits to limit the impact.
The simplest way is to keep the device away from the body. "Keeping the phone a few dozen centimeters away from the body, or placing it in a handbag, briefcase, or backpack, when not in use, can significantly reduce the level of RF energy absorbed," said the Department's expert.
In addition, it is recommended to keep the device a certain distance from the ear when making a call, instead of holding it close. Users can use the speakerphone or headphones in specific situations.
In addition, limit the use of the phone when the signal is weak, only 1-2 bars, when moving quickly, or when needing to download or watch large videos. These are the times when the phone emits stronger RF energy than usual.
According to the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), many devices are being advertised as radiation shielding but can cause the phone to work harder, emitting more RF energy to maintain the connection. Therefore, users should avoid anti-radiation products of unknown origin.
"There is no solid evidence of harmful effects of RF energy on human health; applying small changes in usage habits can minimize potential risks," the Radio Frequency Department noted.