Abstract

Overview

This cross-sectional study explores the correlation between mobile phone carrying locations of men and their risk perception associated with radiofrequency-electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure. The study was triggered by the increasing concern over possible health risks due to carrying mobile phones close to the body.

Findings

• Participants in this study were 356 men, aged between 18-72 years.
• The survey indicated varying habits of phone storage both indoors (with 54.0% of men placing phones on a table/desk and 34.7% keeping it in close body contact) and outdoors (54.0% kept the handset in front trouser pocket).
• A significant observation was that 85.0% of these men held their mobile phone against the head during calls, while 15.0% used earphones or the loudspeaker.
• There was a clear indication that men carrying their handset in close contact, especially near reproductive organs, perceived higher health risks due to RF-EMF exposure.

Conclusion

The study found a significant association between handset carrying locations and RF-EMF perception of risk. Men who keep their phones in close contact with the body, particularly near reproductive organs or against their heads during calls, express greater concern about potential health risks. These findings highlight the need for further research into the implications of RF-EMF exposure from mobile phones.