Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part B (2025)

Background: Mobile phones have become indispensable tools for communication, particularly in rural areas where access to other communication means may be limited. However, excessive use has been linked to several health concerns, both physical and mental.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence, patterns, and health impacts of mobile phone usage among the rural population of Bareilly district.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 389 participants aged 18-60 years using a pretested questionnaire. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: The study found that 72% of participants had been using mobile phones for more than five years, with 55% using phones before sleep. Health issues reported included headaches (26.5%), eye strain (22%), neck pain (19%), and sleep disturbances (20.6%). Despite moderate awareness of electromagnetic radiation risks (51%), only 41% used protective features like eye safety mode.
Conclusion: High mobile phone usage in rural Bareilly is associated with notable health problems. Awareness campaigns and behavioral interventions are necessary to promote safe usage and reduce associated health risks.