Cell Phones & Brain Cancer

Here's something that the cell phone companies are probably hoping you don't take seriously. In an article in yesterday's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PPG) it was reported that Dr. Ronald Herberman, Director of Pitt's Cancer Institute and UPMC Cancer Centers, will be issuing an alert on the risks of cell phone usage and brain cancer. The University of Pittsburgh and UMPC are one of the leading research facilities in the world on the causes, treatment and cures of cancer.

Although the evidence is still controversial and some argue there is not conclusive proof linking cell phone usage and brain cancer Dr. Herberman is convinced that using caution with the devices could be prudent. Researchers from 13 European countries in a study group known as the Interphone Study and similar studies in Sweden have found cause for concern linking cell phone use and brain tumors. The culprit is electromagnetic radiation emitted by cell phones. Any study in cause and effect takes time, sometime years to gather conclusive proof. It hasn't been too long since the increasing popularity and affordability of cell phones have been around. It will be awhile before enough scientific evidence can be collected to make a definite link with cell phones causing brain cancer.

In the meantime the good folks at Pitt have issued a list of cautions that cell phone users can take just in case: 1) Do not let children to use cell phones. Their developing organs are likely sensitive to any possible exposure. 2) When using a cell phone try to hold it away from the body as far as possible. The strength of electromagnetic radiation weakens with distance. 3) Try not to use cell phones in crowded places to avoid exposing others to that radiation. 4) Try to avoid carrying your cell phone on you especially if you're pregnant. 5) If you must carry your cell phone on you position it so the key pad is facing your body and the radiation emits away from you. 6) Try to limit your time on the phone thus reducing your exposure. 7) Change sides frequently when you are on the phone. 8) Try not to use the phone where there is a weak signal or in fast moving vehicles such as airplanes. cars or trains. Cell phones us max power switching from one relay antenna to another as you travel along. 9) When possible use text messaging, speakers or Blue Tooth type devices. & 10) Pick a device with the lowest Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) available. SAR ratings differ with manufactures and can be found on-line for the different phones.

Maybe 10 years down the road this may be all for naught but if someone with the credentials of Dr. Herberman finds cause for concern it may be worth paying heed. What do they say - an ounce of precaution is worth a pound of cure?

Along with this article the PPG is conducting an on-line poll. Out of over 1,100 of those responding as of this afternoon 39% said they wouldn't change their cell phone usage, 24% said they would be more careful, 14% said they would reduce their usage and 13% said they would use more hands free devices. Interesting to note only 1% said they don't have a cell phone.

My how times they have changed. Can you hear me now?

ole nib