Why your BlackBerry could harm your health - Scientists

They are the two major players in the smartphone market, with millions of users.

But, when it comes to your health, the iPhone emerges as the clear winner over a BlackBerry.

Scientists tested several popular smartphones for two of the most common allergens – cobalt and nickel – and found neither metal was present in iPhones.

Blackberrys contain nickel which is thought to affect 30% of the population

But a third of BlackBerrys tested contained nickel, which can bring those with sensitive skin out in a rash.
A nickel allergy is the most common contact allergy in Britain, thought to affect 30 per cent of the population and rising. The scientists tested the phones' buttons, keypad, speakers, camera and metal panels.

Dr Tania Mucci, who presented the study at the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, said: 'Both metals can cause an allergic reaction including dry, itchy patches along the cheekbones, jawline and ears.'
Nickel is a silvery-white metal used in alloys because of its resistance to corrosion.
It is found in objects including door handles, scissors, jewellery – and even occurs naturally in some foods, such as nuts and kidney beans.