Risk of cancer from mobile phones is unclear

Recent evidence does not implicate the use of mobile phones in the development of cancer, finds an independent review published this week. But the body that commissioned the report is still recommending a precautionary approach to using them.

It's good to talk, but is it safe?

Credit: CHARLES GULLUNG/PHOTONICA

The advisory group's report, commissioned by the United Kingdom's National Radiological Protection Board, says that the limitations of the research to date—and the fact that mobile phones have not been in widespread use for a long time—mean that adverse health effects cannot be completely excluded.

The review came in response to a request from the government after the publication in May 2000 of the Stewart report on the health impact of mobile phones (BMJ 2000;320: 1358

The Independent Advisory Group on Non-ionising Radiation, led by Professor Anthony Swerdlow at the Institute of Cancer Research, London, assessed the recent experimental and epidemiological evidence on radiofrequency transmissions (microwaves) from all sources, particularly those associated with mobile phones and base stations.

Some studies have found possible adverse effects on brain function of exposure to microwaves at levels similar to those from mobile phone hand-sets. But the group regarded the overall evidence as inconclusive. Moreover, more recent, better quality, research did not corroborate the findings of earlier studies, suggesting that the emissions affected the movement of calcium ions in nervous system tissues.

“In aggregate, the research published since the [Stewart] report does not give cause for concern,” concludes the review, saying that the weight of the evidence does not implicate microwave emissions at exposures below recommended levels.

But it cautions that the variable quality of the available research and relatively short term data mean that detrimental health effects cannot be ruled out completely.

“The possibility therefore remains that there could be health effects from exposure to radiofrequency fields below guideline levels; hence continued research is needed,” it says.

The National Radiological Protection Board said “A precautionary approach to the development of mobile phone technology remains a justifiable approach.”

Dr Michael Clark, scientific spokesman for the board, said “There is still uncertainty about the health effects,” he said.