A comprehensive review commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) has found no connection between mobile phone usage and brain cancer. After analyzing over 5,000 studies, researchers concluded that long-term use of mobile phones does not increase the risk of cancers such as glioma or salivary gland tumors. The review, led by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), debunked the long-standing myth that mobile phones’ radiofrequency emissions cause cancer.
Lead researcher Ken Karipidis stated, “Despite the surge in mobile phone usage, the rates of brain tumors have not risen.” This significant review examined 63 key studies, none of which found evidence linking mobile phone radiation to cancer. The findings are particularly crucial given the long-standing concerns about mobile devices emitting non-ionizing radiation, which, unlike ionizing radiation from X-rays, cannot break chemical bonds or damage cells.
What the Data Reveals
The study revealed that radiation exposure from mobile phones doesn’t elevate the risk of developing six types of head, spine, and brain tumors, including pediatric brain cancer. Notably, even those using mobile phones for over a decade showed no heightened cancer risk. There was no association between the cumulative number of calls, call duration, and increased cancer cases.
Significance of the Study
Since 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) had labeled mobile phones’ radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as potential carcinogens. The review provides reassurance, confirming that no evidence supports these concerns. Despite prolonged mobile phone usage, no increase in brain tumors has been observed, dispelling years of fear surrounding mobile technology.
Oncologists’ Recommendations
Oncologists emphasize focusing on more critical cancer risk factors. Dr. Abhishek Shankar of AIIMS advises people to shift attention towards preventive measures like limiting smoking and obesity, both of which contribute to the majority of cancer cases. He also recommends the HPV vaccine as a preventive strategy.
Dr. GK Rath, former head of the National Cancer Institute, adds that 50% of cancers are caused by smoking and infections, especially HPV, which leads to cervical cancer. Preventing smoking and HPV infections alone could drastically lower cancer cases worldwide.
However, experts still caution against excessive mobile phone use. Dr. Shankar notes that while mobile radiation might not cause cancer, it can lead to issues like headaches, anxiety, and hearing problems due to overuse. Additionally, oncologists stress the importance of monitoring children’s mobile use to prevent potential addictive behaviors.
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