Probable subjective health hazards of mobile phone

Introduction: Although mobile phones are extensively used, few of its possible health hazards were studied. Many investigators studied the possible carcinogenic effects, however few gave attention to possible systemic health hazards of mobile phone. Objectives: This work was conducted to study the possible systemic effects of mobile phones. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted during the period from 1st of October to end of December 2015. A cross sectional survey was conducted to study possible health hazards of mobile phone. The study involved 692 students and employees at King Khalid University, Abha, KSA. An internet self administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: Tinnitus was heard after mobile use by 362(52%) of subjects. 260 (37.6%) felt hearing loss. In addition 505 (73%) had insomnia during night. Lack of concentration was reported by 563 (81.4%) of subjects. In addition 205 (29.6%) suffered palpitation on increased use of mobile phone. Wrist pain was felt by 438 (63.3%). Also 536 (77.5%) felt neck pains at least occasionally. 117 (16.9%) had pain in lower limb after keeping the mobile phone at their belts. 430 (81.4%) of subjects complained of memory loss. Headache after mobile use was felt by 363 (52.5%) subjects. Comparison between age groups showed that insomnia, tinnitus, and lack of concentration increased with age. Also insomnia, lack of concentration were more common among smokers. Leg pain was more common between smokers under 18 years of age. Conclusions: Possible subjective health hazards were frequently reported among mobile users. They included insomnia, lack of concentration, memory loss, palpitations, wrist pain and leg pains.