Future Waves of America

ELTON HO
Staff Writer

To many, the thought of radiation exposure strikes fear into the heart. The deadly waves are known to cause health complications in generations of humans. Yet, another side exists to the destructive force. Over the past years, scientists have been harnessing the power of radioactive waves for practical applications in technology such as cell phones, Wi-Fi and nuclear energy. Although these forms of technology are powerful and convenient, some are anxious about handling a potentially dangerous substance—is it worth it?

Cell phone waves are one use of radiation that is often debated. Theoretically, extended use of cell phones may be harmful as they emit radio waves that can be absorbed by tissue, but the many studies on this matter have produced inconsistent or inconclusive results. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that mobile phones are not associated with any adverse health complications, but people continue to take aggressive stances on both sides of the issue. Concerns have been raised particularly about undiscovered long-term effects. But with the mass proliferation of mobile phones in recent times, it is difficult to imagine a future without them.

Another type of radiation that people are continually exposed to is Wi-Fi signals. Wi-Fi is beginning to become ubiquitous in U.S. households and is even being installed in some school districts. As with cell phone signals, the effects of Wi-Fi exposure on health need further research, but most existing studies, such as one conducted by the World Health Organization in 2011, conclude that no major health complications will develop. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), households are exposed to about 200 millirems of radiation annually. However, it will take at least 5,000 millirems of exposure for even minor health effects to occur. A point of contention is young children growing up in an environment permeated with Wi-Fi; they are known to be more susceptible to radiation. However, taking students away from computers sounds regressive to some.

Radiation plays a larger part in modern life than many realize. As technology centered around radiation continues to spread and develop, only the future can tell what unseen consequences it may have on people.