Recent statements from state health authorities in Russia have raised concerns about health risks associated with mobile phone use, especially for children. The discussion followed a comment to socialbites.ca about France’s consideration of banning sales of the iPhone 12 due to reported high levels of electromagnetic radiation from the device.
On September 12, 2023, measurements conducted by the French National Frequency Agency, ANFR, indicated that the specific absorption rate SAR for the iPhone 12 when in contact with the body stood at 5.74 W/kg, exceeding France’s regulatory limit of 4 W/kg. In the wake of these findings, a French official suggested in media reports that Apple might be compelled to halt iPhone 12 sales in the country unless the device returns to normal operation. When questioned about the broader health implications of Apple smartphones, Rospotrebnadzor indicated that electromagnetic radiation from mobile devices can pose health risks to the general population.
It was advised that radiation from all mobile phones should be treated with caution. The guidance emphasized practical safety measures for talking on mobile phones, noting that conversations should be kept brief and that occasional pauses between calls can help limit exposure. The statement also recommended avoiding sleeping with a phone nearby and suggested carrying the device in a bag rather than on the body. Prolonged placement against the chest or in pockets was discouraged as a precaution.
Additionally, it was noted that Russia uses a different metric to assess electromagnetic exposure than SAR. The energy flux density, measured in watts per square centimeter of tissue, is the parameter used by the Russian system. The head exposure standard, defined for the frequency range from 300 to 2600 MHz, is set at 100 μW/cm2. Because SAR and energy flux density measure different aspects of exposure, direct comparison between the two values is not valid, according to the ministry.
There has also been commentary about the iPhone 15 Pro, with discussions about its performance in the marketplace and among recent Apple devices.
Experts note that international standards for electromagnetic exposure are continually reviewed as technology evolves. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about official measurements and guidance from health authorities and to follow practical safety tips for everyday use of mobile devices.