Mobile phones disrupt sleep

A research funded by Mobile Manufacturers Forum has challenged the safety of cellular phones. It holds that radiation emitted from mobile phones can cause insomnia, headaches and confusion. It may also lessen the amount of deep sleep; hence one may feel disturbed even after waking up.

The research was jointly done by Sweden's Karolinska Institute and Wayne State University in the US. It examined 35 men and 36 women between ages 18 and 45.

One group was exposed to radiation equivalent to that received when using a mobile phone. The other group was kept in the same conditions, but given only artificial exposure.

Those exposed to radiation took more time to enter the first of the deeper stages of sleep, and spent less time in the most profound one.

The scientists concluded: "The study indicates that during laboratory exposure to 884 MHz wireless signals components of sleep believed to be important for recovery from daily wear and tear are adversely affected.

Researcher Professor Bengt Arnetz said: "The study strongly suggests that mobile phone use is associated with specific changes in the areas of the brain responsible for activating and coordinating the stress system."

Researchers also advise not to keep mobile phones nearby during sleep. During evening, it is better to use land lines for making phone calls.