Debunking Myths About Smartphones and Brain Tumors
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While concerns persist, experts affirm that mobile phones emit non-ionizing radiation at safe levels, with no conclusive evidence linking them to serious health risks like cancer.
Many people recognize the personal benefits of mobile services, though the public may also express concerns about possible risks from the radio signals used by mobile devices. Research across several countries indicates that a significant percentage of the population has a limited understanding of how mobile phones operate and how levels of radio signals are regulated and controlled.
Some individuals may have encountered claims suggesting potential risks from long-term mobile phone use or that certain people are more sensitive to radio signals. Mobile phone users may attribute certain symptoms to their phone usage. Parents, while acknowledging the personal safety benefits mobile phones offer their children, may simultaneously worry about possible health risks.
Dr. Rvaikanth Vuppu, Consultant – Neuro and Spine Surgeon, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, shares all you need to know:
A mobile phone is a low-power radio transmitter that, under good network coverage, operates at levels similar to those of a cordless home phone.
Mobile phones are tested for compliance at maximum power, and international exposure guidelines are designed to be protective of all individuals.
If users remain concerned, they can reduce their exposure by using a hands-free kit or limiting the duration of calls.
Cancer is another health concern often raised in the context of 5G deployment, both by the public and researchers. Numerous studies have examined the effects of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) on humans, with mixed results.
In 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO)/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified RF electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an observed increased risk for glioma — a malignant form of brain cancer — linked to wireless phone use.
For example, Carlberg and Hardell (2017) concluded that RF radiation should be considered a human carcinogen due to its potential to cause glioma. In contrast, Vila et al. (2018) found no clear association between RF or intermediate frequency (IF) EMF exposure and glioma or meningioma. These contradictory findings underscore the need for further research to assess whether 5G could contribute to cancer development.
Concerns about 5G and DNA damage stem from misunderstandings about radiation. For many people, the term 'radiation" evokes alarming associations with nuclear disasters or cancer. However, only higher-frequency radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV), X-rays, and gamma rays, is ionizing — meaning it can break molecular bonds and damage DNA. The radio waves used in 5G technology are non-ionizing and lack the energy to cause such damage.
The non-ionizing nature of 5G means it cannot physically cause cancer in the same way ionizing radiation might. This distinction is critical: while 5G uses radiofrequency radiation, it operates at power levels far below those capable of harming biological tissue or altering DNA.
Regarding the IARC classification:
On May 31, 2011, radiofrequency electromagnetic fields were classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on limited evidence of increased risk for glioma and acoustic schwannoma, both associated with long-term wireless phone use. However, for other types of cancer and environmental or occupational exposures, the evidence was deemed inadequate.
The IARC summary notes indications of increased glioma risk among individuals in the highest 10% of cumulative phone use. However, researchers did not observe a consistent trend of increasing risk with greater duration of use. The conclusions were tempered by potential biases and errors, which limit the strength of the findings and preclude a definitive causal interpretation.
In response, many health authorities have emphasized the need for further research while reaffirming that individuals can take practical steps to reduce mobile phone exposure. Importantly, the WHO continues to support the adoption of international RF-EMF exposure limits as a precautionary measure.
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