Cell Phones and Brain Cancer

You may have heard about the relationship between cell phone use and brain cancer. But is it true or is it just a scary tactic by cell phone phobics? Let's examine the evidence. You be the judge.

The evidence
There are scientific studies that seem to show a significant relationship between cell phone utilization and brain cancer. In a study titled: "Cell phones and Brain Tumors: 15 Reasons for Concern, Science, Spin and the Truth Behind Interphone," there is direct evidence that cell phones are related to an increased risk of brain tumor development. This study was reviewed by top scientists. The report analyzes the increased evidence (mainly science reports) that cell phones have some negative effects on human health and specifically on brain cancer development.

Another study, published by the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority in Finland, showed that people who has used a cell phone for more than 2000 hours have almost three times (actually 2.70 times) more probability of developing brain tumors. The study was clear in establishing an increased risk of brain cancer development by phone cell usage. One more study, published by the World Health Organization, also demonstrated the danger of using cell phones as related to the development of some types of brain cancer tumors.

For years cell phone companies have claimed that cell phones are safe to use. They say they have scientific reports to back up their claims. Unfortunately, these studies have been financed by the same cell phone companies so there seems to be a conflict of interest there.

What this means to you
Until things get clear it is prudent to take precautions to minimize any negative effects of cell phones. Here is what you can do:

1) Minimize the time you use your cell phone.
2) At home use your traditional phone instead of the cell phone

3) Keep cell phones away from children
4) Use the speaker mode of your cell phone
5) When not in use, turn off your cell phone
6) When not in use, try to stay away from cell phones

Sources:

WHO to Announce Cell Phone, Brain Tumor Link

International Study Shows No Increased Risk of Brain Tumors from Cell Phone Use

Cellphones and Brain Tumors 15 Reasons for Concern

Mobile phones boost brain tumor risk by up to 270 percent on side of brain where phone is held