usage amongst medical and paramedical students:An institution based study

Introduction: Today, Indians and especially the youth are increasingly using the mobile as a means of communication with their near and dear ones as well as with their professional contacts. However, concerns continue to be raised about the widespread potential adverse health impacts associated with their use. Material and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted amongst medical and paramedical students of a Health institute to study mobile phone dependence among the study subjects. Results: 159 out of 270 were aware of the documented increased risk of cancer with high mobile usage. Out of the 270 responders, 143 had experienced eye strain and headache was noted by 122. It was significant that 33% of the responders perceived themselves as nomophobic. Conclusion: The results from our study are indicative that nomophobia is an emerging problem of the modern era. It is necessary to raise awareness about nomophobia by informing students, parents, teachers and psychological counsellors.