Cellphone Usage May Increase Cancer Risk

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), comprised of 31 scientists from 14 countries, has found sufficient evidence to categorize the exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields – emitted by cellular phones – as potentially carcinogenic to humans. Their extensive review of peer-reviewed studies on cell phone safety found some evidence of increase in glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer, and acoustic neuroma brain cancer, among mobile phone users. As a result, WHO now considers mobile phone use to be of the same “carcinogenic hazard” as lead, engine exhaust and chloroform. The IARC Director commented that: “Given the potential consequences for public health of this classification and findings, it is important that additional research be conducted into the long‐term, heavy use of mobile phones. Pending the availability of such information, it is important to take pragmatic measures to reduce exposure.”