ខ្មែរ
English
Almost overnight, communication worldwide changed. With the introduction of the smartphone, we’re completely inundated with technology everywhere we turn. Instead of making efforts to prevent this, it seems more and more of us are addicted to our iPhones, tablets, and any other screen we can find. However, as much as we love being constantly connected, it is wreaking havoc on our day-to-day safety.
First of all, texting while driving is one of the most dangerous things we can do with our phones. In a country where traffic laws are, at best, suggestions, there is an increased need to pay attention at all times. When we take our eyes off the road to check our phones for a call or text, we’re putting ourselves and others in danger. There are far too many accidents that are avoidable if you simply pull off to the side of the road before pulling out your phone. Remind your friends and always speak up to tuk tuk drivers who are being careless while texting.
Another major issue is the daily amount we actually use our phones. Although they might seem innocuous, the way phones function is through transmitting radio waves. Research implies that this can have long-term effects on our brains and overall health. “The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) suggests cell phone users to keep a minimum distance of 20 centimeters from their handset to significantly reduce radiation exposure,” Medical Daily reported. So pick up a newspaper, a book, or have a conversation while you put down your phone for a bit.
Prolonged usage can also negatively affect our physical health. Having our heads down to look at screens all day is causing severe muscular and skeletal damage. Back pain from poor posture is becoming increasingly common as well as joint pain in thumbs and wrists from texting. Make sure to take breaks from using your devices to relieve this pain, but also incorporate stretching into your daily routine to alleviate any accumulated tension. Since we’re fully in the digital age, we have to take as many precautions as we can to protect our health while still enjoying the luxuries of the modern, technological world.
