Cell phone radiation consists of microwaves, which are called electromagnetic fields. To be able to make calls at all, the device has to register with the nearest antenna and log in. It then constantly communicates where it is via its own antenna. This means that a lot of radiation is produced when the device is on standby.

In any case,the Federal Office for Radiation Protection advises caution when talking continuously. This is because some of the radiation reaches the head. If the cell phone is in your trouser or breast pocket when talking with the headset, the radiation is absorbed by the part of the body near which the mobile phone is located.

If possible, it is better to use the landline, according to the Federal Office. This is because cell phone radiation can actually be dangerous. Further tips: Keep phone calls as short as possible and avoid making calls when reception is poor, for example in a car without an external aerial. The poorer the connection to the nearest base station, the higher the power with which the cell phone transmits. The bodywork of the car, for example, impairs the connection, so the cell phone transmits at a higher power level.

But this electrosmog has other side effects for some people. This is a medical condition called "electrosensitivity". Some people are convinced that they react to high-frequency electromagnetic fields with physical complaints. They complain of persistent headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, noises in their ears, sleep disorders or chronic fatigue.

Theproblem here is that medical research cannot clearly attribute these symptoms to the cause "cell phone radiation". There could always be other causes. But to stay on the safe side, everyone can keep their exposure to radiation as low as possible and make as few calls as necessary. Further information is available from the Federal Office for Radiation Protection at www.bfs.de