Radiation levels from phones skyrocket

The Swiss are exposed to ten times more radiation from mobile phones and other electronic devices than they were 20 years ago.

However, the authors of a study published on Wednesday said the average strength of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields, 0.22 volts per metre, was still well under the permitted limits in Switzerland.

Researchers from Bern and Basel universities measured the impact on individuals by strapping electromagnetic-detection devices to 166 volunteers.

The study found mobile phones, mobile phone masts and cordless phones were the main culprits for the increase. Electrosmog from radio and television stations and Wi-Fi signals plays only a minor role.

The authors said individuals are responsible for generating much of the radiation themselves and recommend that people cut down on calls from their mobile devices and buy phones with cords for home use to reduce exposure.

They added there was still insufficient evidence that this type of radiation was harmful, but the results of an international study looking into the impact on health were expected by the end of this year.

The Swiss study was funded by the National Science Foundation and has been published in the magazine, Environmental Research.

swissinfo.ch with agencies