Medical Health Encyclopedia

Cell phones - do they cause cancer?

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO NOW?

Although health problems related to long-term use are thought to be unlikely, there are some steps that can be taken to limit your potential risks.

• Save your lengthy phone conversations for a conventional telephone (landline).
• Change to a cell phone that has its antenna outside the vehicle.
• Use a headset and place the phone away from your body.
• Find out how much SAR energy is emitted from the telephone.

CHILDREN AND CELL PHONES

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Generally, cell phone studies have involved adults aged 18 or older. Most children didn't use cell phones until the mid-1990s. This leaves the effects of cell phone use on children unclear, but taking the same steps outlined for adults with your children may help to reduce the potential risks.

Other national governments have recommended that children be discouraged from using cell phones. In December 2000, the British government handed out pamphlets that recommended minimizing children's cell phone usage, even though there was no scientific evidence confirming or denying a health risk.

CELL PHONES AND DRIVING

The risk of being in a car accident while talking on a cell phone is higher than any risk for cancer.

Regulatory organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Safety Council (NSC) emphasize that using a cell phone redirects a person's focus from driving to the telephone call. They claim that the problem is being distracted by the conversation, not the phone itself. Therefore, having a hands-free phone may not reduce the chance of an accident. There is considerable controversy over these safety issues.

Laws regarding cell-phone use while driving are made at the state level. New York has a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. Other states have some restrictions, and many other state bills are currently being reviewed.