Research now shows the presence of allergens nickel and cobalt in a third of BlackBerry mobile phones.
According to testing results presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) held recently, in flip phones, there exists evidence of nickel and cobalt by up to 91 and 52 percent respectively, a high-risk allergy factor.
Medics have been recommending smartphone users who are allergic to these metals to stay away from buying a BlackBerry to prevent infliction. Alternatively, BlackBerry users should make use of a plastic phone cases or wireless devices to avoid severe symptoms of allergic reaction.
“Both metals can cause an allergic reaction including dry, itchy patches along the cheek bones, jaw line and ears,” allergist Tania Mucci, M.D., lead study author and ACAAI member was quoted saying by Health24.
Worst cases of health problems associated with cellphone-inflicted allergies are reported to be eczema, skin lesions and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (skin pigmentation problems caused by excessive melanin exposure).
As the competition between the various brands of devices continue to race on, this consumer affecting aspects all count for the choice on the user’s side.
With more than 285 million cell phone subscribers in the United States, the awareness of allergens can have quite a significant effect on wise use of handsets to beneficial health.
The ACAAI is an expert medical organisation with 5700 allergists-immunologists. All members are board-certified physicians who specialise in the treatment of allergies and asthma. They provide patients with medical solutions to related health problems.
