Category Archives: Common Myths

All, Common Myths

DO CELL PHONES CAUSE CANCER?

Is There A Cell Phone Link To Cancer? A Definite Maybe

Image from sciencefriday.com

Prachi Shah

In the 21st century, cell phones are considered a utility rather than a luxury. Sometimes one hears that waves emitted by these ubiquitous devices might promote tumor formation. That sounds frightening–let’s take a look at the evidence. 

Cell phones, like FM radio and microwave ovens, operate using electromagnetic (EM) waves. When the cell phone is held up to the body, the waves can be absorbed by the body in an amount known as the specific absorption rate (SAR). The SAR can vary dramatically by factors such as the phone model and the method/frequency/duration of use, meaning that each user may experience a different SAR based on their cell phone habits. Cell phones emit and receive RF waves, which are located in between FM radio waves and microwaves on the spectrum of EM wave frequency. 

The idea that absorbed radiation from a cell phone might be harmful came from research showing that ionizing radiation (such as the high-frequency waves released by an x-ray or CT scanner) could harm a human if they were exposed to it regularly over long periods of time. 

A number of studies on both humans and animals have not found a link between cell phone EM waves and cancer. RF waves are non-ionizing, meaning that they are not high-energy enough to directly damage the DNA within cells (unlike other known, dangerous types of waves known as ionizing radiation). In addition, cell phones emit this RF radiation in very small amounts such that the waves are not able to noticeably heat up the tissue that is in contact with the cell phone.

The idea that cell phones cause brain cancer can make us anxious and perhaps less able to function in the modern world. Given the potential for negative and frightening ideas to cause this type of harm, we feel they should not be promoted without solid experimental evidence. So far, all the studies performed have important limitations that prevent us from conclusively stating that cell phones do not have any harmful health effects. On the other hand, the scientific rationale for their safety is sound, there is no experimental evidence of potential harm, and the idea itself is harmful. So when it comes to cell phones and tumors, it’s probably best to think twice.   

https://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/31/technology/personaltech/31basics.html

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/cellular-phones.html

All, Common Myths

Do we only use 10% of our brain?

Image from medicalnewstoday.com

Emily Samson

The human brain is complex. Despite advances in neuroscience and brain imaging, much of how the brain functions remains a mystery. This vast uncertainty may be one reason many misconceptions about how the brain works persist in popular culture. For example, one common myth is that humans only use 10% of our brains.     

The origins of this myth can be traced back to the early 1900s. Psychologist and philosopher, William James, wrote a book in 1908 in which he claimed that humans only use a small part of our mental resources. This theory was backed up only by observation and anecdotes, without any scientific evidence to support the claim. However, the idea that humans have untapped brain potential was popularized and has become the topic of many motivational speeches, self-help books, and Hollywood movies.

However, using a technique called functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), scientists and doctors can see which parts of the brain are activated during different tasks. The fMRI scans show that even during simple and routine tasks like talking, walking, or listening to music, people use almost every region of their brain.

In addition to conscious tasks, the brain is responsible for performing many functions that you might not be aware of, such as coordinating movement and balance, regulating your body temperature, and making sure your organs are functioning. So even when you think you are doing nothing, you are using far more than 10% of your brain to control things like your heart rate or breathing. In fact, in a 24-hour period, you have likely activated every region of your brain.  

While it’s exciting to think that we could tap into unused portions of our brain to expand our intelligence or creativity, we have no evidence to think that there are any unused portions. On the bright side, our brains are working harder than we might think to keep us functioning!

 

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-people-only-use-10-percent-of-their-brains/

 

https://www.britannica.com/story/do-we-really-use-only-10-percent-of-our-brain

All, Common Myths, Summer

Medical Myths: Back to Backpacks

Image from theatlantic.com

 

After more than a year of almost entirely virtual school, most schools and universities are returning to in-person education this fall. This means that students will be spending more time walking to and from classes, studying on campus, and exploring the city, all while sporting any student’s quintessential accessory: the backpack.

While backpacks are practical and comfortable, the books, laptops, water, and other things inside can also be extremely heavy. For decades, concerns have been periodically raised regarding daily use of a heavy backpack. A heavy or awkward backpack might be uncomfortable, but the idea that it causes harm is likely an overstatement.  

There are also things you can do to improve comfort with a standard backpack. Backpacks with two, wide, cushioned straps allow weight to be distributed evenly, which may be more comfortable than a messenger bag or a backpack slung over one shoulder. A waist strap can also help distribute weight. Tighten all straps so the backpack hangs in the center of the back. 

In addition, packing one’s backpack with the heaviest items closest to the back and spreading items throughout all the pockets might also be more comfortable. Consider buying electronic copies of books or keeping duplicates of supplies at home so you don’t have to carry around as much weight. If you struggle to put on a backpack or lean forward while wearing one, you might want to try using a rolling bag.  

Backpacks are utilitarian, timeless parts of the student experience, and can and should be used in a way that makes you feel most comfortable and prepared for your day. While they may, at times, be uncomfortable, Think Twice thinks these references may overstate the potential for harm from backpacks. In our opinion, the imperatives (e.g. “should”) and statements that there is a “wrong” way to wear a backpack overstate what we see as options for getting around comfortably with school books. There is no evidence for harm associated with backpacks.

 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/childrens-health/bad-backs-and-backpacks

https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/backpack.html

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/backpack-safety/