Investigating the Relationship between the Proximity of Cell Phone Towers to Residential Areas and Health Symptoms in Adolescents: A Study from Maysan Governorate
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31674/mjn.2026.v17i05.015Abstract
Background: The proliferation of cell phone towers in residential areas has prompted concerns about potential health effects, particularly on adolescents who may be more susceptible to Electromagnetic Fields (EMF). Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the health impacts of EMF emitted by cell phone towers on adolescents in Missan Province. Methods: Conducted from (January 2024 and June 2024), this study involved 150 adolescents aged 12-18 years. Participants were categorized based on their proximity to cell phone towers (100-200m, 201-350m, and 351-500m). Results: Adolescents living within 100-200 meters of cell phone towers reported significantly higher rates of headaches (60%), sleep disturbances (52%), and difficulty concentrating (44%) compared to those living further away. Conclusion: This study suggests a potential association between proximity to cell phone towers and increased prevalence of certain health symptoms among adolescents, particularly headaches, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Recommendations: These findings highlight the need for further research into the long-term health effects of EMF exposure on this vulnerable age group. Given the widespread use of mobile technology, understanding these impacts is crucial for informing future health guidelines and regulatory policies.
Keywords:
Adolescents, Cell Phone Towers, Missan ProvinceDownloads
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