The research, carried out in conjunction with independent research organisation, TNS, found that 78% of mobile phone users, aged between 16-24, reported backache, neckache and headaches, which experts say can be a direct result of holding your mobile phone between your ear and neck while trying to do other tasks simultaneously.
The statistics show that over 18 per cent of 16-24 year olds regularly make and receive more than 600 minutes worth of calls per month on their mobile phone, talking to friends, family and colleagues. This has resulted in 88 per cent of those interviewed having to multi-task whilst on the phone, in order to be more efficient and make the most of their time.
32 per cent of those surveyed stated that shopping was the main activity that they did whilst on their mobile phone. Whilst 28 per cent said that
they regularly used a computer whilst on their mobile phone. A further 20
per cent stated that they did housework whilst talking. An additional 20 per cent cook and 17 per cent drive. Doing all these activities properly involves users having both hands free, which can only be achieved by users holding their mobile between their neck and shoulder.
“My time is precious,” explained Jennifer Boot, a 22 year-old office executive. ”I work long hours and have to make the most of my free time. I regularly find myself in the supermarket after work, trying to buy my dinner, talk to my mum and arrange a night out! It is scary to think that I could be doing my neck and back long-term damage.”
“With people working longer hours than ever before, we have to efficiently manage our time and successfully juggle home and work lives,” commented Andrew Doyle, Country Manager, Jabra UK and Ireland. “But, it is clear that there is a worrying trend amongst under 25s to incorrectly hold their mobile phones in order to do two things at once, leading to neck and shoulder pain and discomfort. Through simply using a wireless Bluetooth headset, mobile phone users can continue to multitask safely, without doing themselves any long-term damage.”
Methodology – TNS interviewied a representative sample of 1,008 GB adults aged 16+ by telephone 2nd-4th december 2005.
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