THE IMPLICATION OF GLOBAL SYSTEM OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION (GSM): PERCEPTIONS OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS AND MICRO-WAVE TELECOMMUNCATION EXPERTS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

The use of Global System of Mobile Communication (GSM) is becoming widespread in Nigeria and other parts of the world. The arrival of this sophisticated technology, which has turned the world into a global village, has, however, been greeted with heated debated on its possible health hazards. This study utilizes evidence from literature and responses to questionnaire and in-depth interviews among health professionals and microwave telecommunication experts in Ogun state, Nigeria. The results show two rather opposing schools of thought. On the one hand, there are those who share the view that the radiation emitted from handsets and mast towers constitutes serious health hazards, while on the other hand, there are also those who argue that the radiations are so minimal and, as such, do not constitute any health hazards and that there is no proof of any harmful effects of GSM use. This controversy calls for more independent investigation on this subject while necessary precautions should be taken in the mean time