Many people have long speculated the damaging effects of mobile phones to our bodies. One of these is that using these gadgets can increase the risk of cancer.
In 2011, however, the International Agency for Research on Cancer placed mobile phones under their “gold standard” rating system. This means that such devices can possibly cause cancer in humans.
Evidences in Studies
The largest study ever published that looked into the relationship of mobile phones and cancer consisted of over 420,000 respondents. This Danish study found that there was no evidence linking these devices with leukemia and brain cancers. Another study, looking into 6,000 people from 13 countries with brain cancer also had the same results.
There were studies stating that those people with brain cancers have the tumor growing in the side of their head where they hold their phone to during calls. In such cases, however, their risk for brain cancer was not significantly higher. This effect was attributed to problems with the design of the research study. The information gathered in the study relied on the memory of the participants which is not always reliable.
Further researches in this field are currently on going in order to look for new evidences linking these two.
Cancer Incidence
Consumers have seen a boom in the manufacture, purchase, and use of mobile phones since the 1980s. And if mobile phones do increase the risk for cancer, there should be a trend of increased cancer cases today. However, studies in various countries around the world that then umber of people acquiring this disease has not changed much. Still, it is important to note that cancer takes years to develop so such a trend might rise over time.
Mobile Phone Radiation
It is the radiation that is emitted from these devices that are believed to cause cancer. However, the microwave radiation that they emit is very weak and is not enough to damage DNA. The small amount of heat they produce is also not enough for it to be considered a health risk, according to a number of researches.
Years ago, a set of international safety standards has been released as a way to limit the radiation level given off by phones. Such limit will be very beneficial for children and those who are sensitive to phone radiation.
Taking Precautions
Looking at the bigger picture, mobile phones are still new inventions. Although studies have dictated that using them for about 10 years is relatively safe; consumers should still be cautious of its possible long-term effects. Further, there have been no extensive studies looking into these devices’ effect on the health of children so this is another aspect to look into.
Unless substantial evidence is released offering definitive proof that mobile phones increase the risk for cancer or otherwise, the government and the people should still take the necessary precautions. Adults should minimize their exposure to the radiation and heat that it gives off by keeping call shorts. Children under the age of 16, because their bodies are yet to fully develop, should limit the use of phones for essential calls.
About the Author:
Amy C. is a techie fanatic, writing and blogging about the newest gadgets released in this modern world. She also provides the latest information with regards to their care and usage. When she does not have her hands full on electronic devices, she aids in the blogging and administration activities of Greyside Group, a maritime security and executive protection company. Stay tuned for her next post for more interesting information.