Written by Patrick Massey M.D., Ph.D. Using a hands-free headset dramatically reduces exposure to cell phone electromagnetic radiation.
Recent news that the head of a leading cancer institute warned his staff to limit their cell phone use has raised questions again about the possible cancer risk.
While many studies haven’t shown a link, Dr. Ronald Herberman, director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, saw some as-yet unpublished data that alarmed him enough to issue the warning.
Over the past few years, there has been a growing body of evidence that electromagnetic radiation, like that produced by cell phones, does increase the risk of some cancers, especially brain cancer. Some have theorized children may be at even greater risk because of the thinner skull bones – and Herberman advises that children use cell phones only for emergencies.
Doctors Henry Lai and Narenda Singh, researchers at the University of Wisconsin, also caution that the electromagnetic radiation emitted from cell phones is something to worry about.
Other medical experts say there is not enough evidence to prove anything either way. The overall incidence of brain cancer does not seem to be increasing, but cell phone use is exploding. However, some studies have shown an increase in cancer among heavy cell phone users.
In the meantime, what should doctors tell patients? Even if a risk is established, I doubt that people will stop using cell phones. Cancer risk isn’t always an effective deterrent to behavior, as shown by how many Americans still smoke.
However, there are ways to dramatically reduce exposure to cell phone electromagnetic radiation. Keep the cell phone away from your head by using a hands-free earpiece or speakerphone. Many states have enacted laws making it illegal to use a cell phone while driving without a hands-free headset. You can get free ones for most phones at freeheadset.org.
The jury is still out on the Blue Tooth-type technologies since they also give off electromagnetic radiation and are right next to the head.
Much of the current research on cell phones and cancer is coming from Europe and rarely makes it into the U.S. news or commonly read medical journals. It may be some time before definitive recommendations are made by the U.S. medical and regulatory agencies. I recommend reasonable caution and a hands-free headset.
Posted November 19, 2008.
