Smartwatches have risen in recognition in the last few years. Combining the convenience of a watch with the functions of the modern smartphone, these devices are now commonplace. More and more people are now wearing them daily. But with all this technology placed on our wrists, can it be harmful? Is it bad to wear a smartwatch all the time?
The short answer is no. It’s not bad to wear a smartwatch all the time. As long as you are sensible and disciplined, then relying on a smartwatch to watch your daily activities isn’t harmful. It can even be helpful, especially for exercising and working out.
The rest of this write-up will further explain this topic, as well as answer related questions in greater detail. This includes the benefits of using a smartwatch, why using them is not harmful, and how it’s not possible to contract cancer from wearing one.
Is It Bad To Always Wear A Smartwatch?
As mentioned above, smartwatches are safe as long as you are responsible for them. In a nutshell, these devices are essentially small computers that you wear on your wrist. As with any electronic device, whether or not they can be harmful depends on how you use them. That being said, there are still areas of concern, such as radiation exposure and possible health problems.
Let’s explore these, and read ways on how to avoid them.
Article Says Smartwatches Can Cause Cancer
Back in 2015, The New York Times published an article that claims a smartwatch can give you cancer. Per the article, the claim was made because a 2011 announcement by the IARC said that cell phones are “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The claim goes that because cell phones and smartwatches use the same radiation, both pose some risk to humans.
However, the claim has since been proven misleading. The announcement itself has a footnote saying that the ruling is based on limited evidence. Since then, research has been published saying that to date, “there is no evidence from studies of cells, animals, or humans that radiofrequency energy can cause cancer.”
It’s also worth noting that wearables like smartwatches transmit lower energies and frequencies than smartphones.
Can Smartwatches Cause Health Problems?
In the past, studies have pointed out that cell phone radiation can affect the body. This includes headaches, mood swings, and sleep disruptions. The concern here is that because smartwatches also emit radiation, they can also pose long-term health risks.
There have also been reports of numerous individuals who experienced headaches and nausea after wearing the watch for a while. There is also some that struggle with finding a consistent sleeping pattern while wearing the watch.
Per the research, excessive EMF radiation (emitted by such devices) can lead to headaches and nausea. This is why it’s recommended for users to turn on their device’s airplane mode when not in use. As for sleeping problems, the issue is also common with smartphone users. This is usually due to overuse, leading to a decline in productivity and rest.
The Verdict: It Isn’t Harmful To Always Use A Smartwatch
Looking back, these health and safety concerns regarding smartwatch use make sense. After all, these devices use EMF radiation to connect online, and exposure to such is known to pose risks. However, smartphones emit radiation that is simply not strong enough to cause significant harm, and smartwatches even use less than that. Furthermore, the FDA has also reassured us that there is nothing to be concerned about.
As for the other health concerns, smartwatches are just as harmful as smartphones if used without moderation. These devices can disrupt your sleep and lead to a decline in productivity. As such, responsible use is recommended.
How Does A Smartwatch Benefit Your Daily Life?
Because these devices are meant to make life easier, using them responsibly can be very beneficial. This can apply not only to your day-to-day activities but also to your overall health and wellness.
Depending on your preferences and needs, a smartwatch can be a really helpful companion device. Here are the two major ways in how these watches can improve your life.
Smartwatches As Your Fitness And Health Partner
Because these smartwatches are modern fitness trackers, then one of their main functions is to help track your progress throughout your fitness journey. This is why smartwatches usually have features like
- sleep monitoring
- heartbeat sensor
- diet and planning
- pedometers
- vibration massage
- sleeping schedule
- calorie intake and calculator
- and so much more.
These features help you monitor your progress or even help you control your diet.
And some come with fitness programs that you can follow. When used correctly, these can help you make healthier habits and choices in life.
Smartwatches As Your Day-to-Day Companion
Besides helping you stay healthy, smartwatches are also pocket computers. This means that they work as well as modern smartphones, with the added benefit of convenience.
Depending on the type of smartwatch you own, these devices are used for daily tasks such as:
- keeping track of your schedule
- social media
- tracking your location
- sending emails
- messaging
- games
- play your favorite music
- constant reminders
To help you stay connected, these smartwatches can also connect you to the internet, while some can help you make or receive calls. To do this, some smartwatches sync to your phone via Bluetooth, while others are independent devices that have their own SIM slot and cellular capabilities.
As these devices are smartphones strapped to your wrist, they can help you stay up-to-date with your life online. Such functions are very helpful when your schedule is hectic and you don’t always have your phone with you.
Most of these smartwatches even have features that ensure your safety. These include recording your location or independently calling the authorities in case of an emergency.
The Caveat: Smartwatches Have Their Limitations
While smartwatches can be useful devices fit for the modern lifestyle, note that these still have their limitations. For example, while these smartwatches boast features that will help get fit, they’re merely resources that won’t work if you don’t put in the hours. And as is the case with any electronic device, excessive use can negatively affect your attention span and concentration.
Apart from these, the data it gathers can sometimes be inaccurate. The small screen can also result in eye strain and fatigue.
Conclusion
Looking back, it’s logical to ask if smartwatches can be harmful if used often:
- Health scares are common, and can easily spread to the misinformed
- Electronic devices like these emit EMF radiation, which is a definite cause for concern
However, smartwatches emit fewer radio frequencies than smartphones, and those already produce low amounts in general. Studies have also stated that data points otherwise, and there’s nothing to worry about.
While it’s true that smartwatches can pose some risk, the same can be said for any device when used in excess. As long as you’re being responsible for it and controlling your usage, there is no need to worry. It’s also important to make sure that the model you’re using has passed safety standards and is made by a reputable company. So go ahead and enjoy your smartwatch.
