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SAR / Device Absorption

Effect of pierced metallic objects on sar distributions at 900 MHz.

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Fayos-Fernandez J, Arranz-Faz C, Martinez-Gonzalez AM, Sanchez-Hernandez D. · 2006

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Metallic ear piercings and accessories can increase cell phone radiation absorption in head tissues during calls.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

Spanish researchers studied how metallic ear piercings affect radiation absorption when using cell phones at 900 MHz. They found that wearing metal objects near your ear increases peak SAR (specific absorption rate) values, meaning more electromagnetic energy gets absorbed by your head tissues. This suggests that common accessories like earrings could amplify your exposure to cell phone radiation.

Why This Matters

This research highlights an often-overlooked factor that could increase your EMF exposure during phone calls. The study demonstrates that metallic objects worn near the ear can act like antennas, concentrating electromagnetic fields and increasing tissue absorption rates. What makes this particularly relevant is that 900 MHz falls within the frequency range used by GSM cell phones worldwide. While the researchers used controlled laboratory conditions with specific antenna configurations, the principle applies to real-world phone use. The reality is that millions of people wear metallic earrings, hearing aids, or other metal accessories while talking on phones, potentially increasing their radiation exposure without realizing it. You don't have to eliminate all metal accessories, but this research suggests being mindful of what you're wearing during lengthy phone conversations.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Study Details

A study of the interaction between mobile phone antennas and a human head in the presence of different types of metallic objects, attached and pierced to the compressed ear, is presented in this article.

Computed and measured results have been performed by considering a quasi-half-wavelength dipole as t...

Despite the measuring accuracy limitations of the study, both simulated and measured results suggest...

Cite This Study
Fayos-Fernandez J, Arranz-Faz C, Martinez-Gonzalez AM, Sanchez-Hernandez D. (2006). Effect of pierced metallic objects on sar distributions at 900 MHz. Bioelectromagnetics. 27(5):337-353, 2006.
Show BibTeX
@article{j_2006_effect_of_pierced_metallic_2076,
  author = {Fayos-Fernandez J and Arranz-Faz C and Martinez-Gonzalez AM and Sanchez-Hernandez D.},
  title = {Effect of pierced metallic objects on sar distributions at 900 MHz.},
  year = {2006},
  
  url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16724318/},
}
PubMed: 16724318

Cited By (36 papers)

Quick Questions About This Study

Yes, metallic earrings can increase radiation absorption from cell phones. A 2006 Spanish study found that metal objects near your ear raise peak SAR values, meaning your head tissues absorb more electromagnetic energy when wearing metallic jewelry during phone calls.
Metal piercings can amplify phone radiation exposure. Research at 900 MHz frequency showed that metallic objects close to cell phones increase peak specific absorption rate (SAR) values, potentially concentrating more electromagnetic energy in surrounding tissues.
Wearing metallic jewelry during phone calls may increase radiation absorption. Studies demonstrate that metal objects near radiation sources can elevate peak SAR values, suggesting you should consider removing earrings or other metal accessories when making calls.
Metal jewelry can increase cell phone SAR levels near your head. Research found that metallic objects close to 900 MHz radiation sources raise peak absorption rates, meaning more electromagnetic energy gets concentrated in your tissues when wearing metal accessories.
Removing metallic earrings during cell phone use may reduce radiation exposure. Studies show that metal objects near phones increase peak SAR values, concentrating more electromagnetic energy in head tissues, so removing jewelry could be a simple precautionary measure.