Perceived Health Implications in the Use of Mobile Devices by Undergraduate Students of Nigerian Universities

Abstract

This study investigated responses by undergraduate students to the perceived health implications in the use of mobile devices. The survey research design using the qualitative approach was adopted for the study. Five faculties common to both Lead City University and University of Ibadan, Nigeria, were purposively selected for the study while convenience sampling was used in selecting the respondents. Interview was conducted and responses analyzed on forty-eight respondents using the Nvivo software for analyzing qualitative data. Findings showed that many of the respondents had their perceptions on the health implications arising from mobile devices use. Some sources of information on these perceived health hazards include social media, radio, TV, personal experiences, friends and family members. Many reported taking precautions on their use of mobile devices based on their perceived health implications of mobile devices use. Findings also showed that while few respondents refrained from sharing the information on the perceived health hazards, many of the respondents shared this information with others despite this information not being verified. The study recommends government and other stakeholders implementing policy that mandates manufacturers of mobile devices to inform and sensitize users on the potential health hazards involved in their use, thus reducing the level of unsubstantiated information available on the use of mobile devices.