004 Cell Phones and Cancer [23 March 2009]

   
The proliferation of electronics, particularly wireless technologies, has brought with it a proliferation of electromagnetic pollution. This comes in two forms – radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and electromagnetic fields (EMF). Many adverse effects of EMR and EMF have been documented. These include tumours, cancers, headaches, migraines, sleep disturbances, concentration and memory loss, and DNA damage.

A recent article in the Saskatoon Star Phoenix (March 17, 2009) reported on Swedish research that found 1 year of cell phone use increased brain tumours by 5.2 times in children and 1.4 times in adults. Evidence was consistent from 15 studies in 6 different countries. While not yet conclusive, the scientists believed the evidence “sufficiently strong [to warrant] public warnings” and that “the present guidelines in Canada … are not protective of human health.” The results seem to support what others such as Dr. Joseph Mercola [mercola.com] have been warning for years – that children, whose brains are still growing and skulls are thinner, are more susceptible to the effects of radiation and EMF. With tumours sometimes taking years to develop following exposure, the concern is of an epidemic of brain cancers in the near future. The comparison to lung cancer and smoking is unavoidable.

Alas, I fear our society’s addiction to wireless technology and cell phones, is stronger than a smoker’s addiction to nicotine. There are, however, some things we can do about it without discarding the technology completely. First, limit length of calls and shut the phone off between calls. Two types of devices have been developed to reduce exposure from cell phones. Blue Tube headset (not to be confused with Bluetooth) allows the phone to be worn on the belt with the sound carried acoustically in tubes to and from the ears and mouth. Other devices such as the BIOPRO Cell Chip attach to your cell phones and neutralize the effects of both EMF and EMR.

I predict two things about cell phone radiation and health. First, that the telecommunications industry (including the Canadian government) will continue to deny there are any effects. Secondly, that the reports of studies like this one from Sweden will keep piling up until they can no longer be ignored. Don’t wait until then to do something to protect yourself and your family.

This article is intended for educational purposes only; for medical advice consult your licensed health practitioner.