The consensus from the discussion is that carrying a cellphone in your pocket does not cause cancer. Multiple participants referenced the lack of scientific evidence linking cellphone usage to cancer or other health issues, such as headaches or dizziness. Key organizations, including the FDA and the World Health Organization, continue to monitor research on this topic, but currently state that any potential risk is likely minimal. Precautionary measures, such as using hands-free kits, are recommended for those concerned about radiation exposure.
PREREQUISITESThis discussion is beneficial for health professionals, researchers in telecommunications, and individuals concerned about the safety of mobile phone usage.
The answer is no.DeuteriumDude said:My mother has suggested that I quit carrying my cellphone in my pocket, because having it sit there all day by my leg could lead to a tumor. I can't say how plausible this is, so what better place to ask than PF? Again, my question is whether merely carrying your phone in your pocket could cause cancer. Thanks!
Evo said:The answer is no.
DaveC426913 said:We don't dispense medical advice here because of the liability issues. In a similar vein, are you sure you're comfortable taking responsibilty for DeuteriumDude's health?
I suppose this could be generalized and bumped to Feedback Forums.
You're right. Ok, here's the current official consensus on wireless and cordless use.DaveC426913 said:We don't dispense medical advice here because of the liability issues. In a similar vein, are you sure you're comfortable taking responsibilty for DeuteriumDude's health?
HOW SAFE ARE MOBILE AND PORTABLE PHONES?
In recent years, publicity, speculation, and concern over claims of possible health effects due to RF emissions from hand-held wireless telephones prompted various research programs to investigate whether there is any risk to users of these devices There is no scientific evidence to date that proves that wireless phone usage can lead to cancer or a variety of other health effects, including headaches, dizziness or memory loss. However, studies are ongoing and key government agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continue to monitor the results of the latest scientific research on these topics. Also, as noted above, the World Health Organization has established an ongoing program to monitor research in this area and make recommendations related to the safety of mobile phones.
The FDA, which has primary jurisdiction for investigating mobile phone safety, has stated that it cannot rule out the possibility of risk, but if such a risk exists, "it is probably small." Further, it has stated that, while there is no proof that cellular telephones can be harmful, concerned individuals can take various precautionary actions, including limiting conversations on hand-held cellular telephones and making greater use of telephones with hands-free kits where there is a greater separation distance between the user and the radiating antenna. The Web site for the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health provides further information on mobile phone safety: www.fda.gov/cellphones/[/URL]. [/quote]
[URL]http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/rf-faqs.html[/URL]
There is a lot of information at the link I posted. You might find what you are looking for. Jut start at the top.DeuteriumDude said:Thanks everyone. Hope I haven't started an argument. I know now that there isn't much empirical evidence that cellphones can cause cancer. But I guess when I first posted this, I was thinking someone might happen to know how to calculate the radiation in rad or rem and be able to show that either this amount is harmful or is not harmful.
I appreciate Evo's response, and don't worry, I certainly take responsibility for my own health.
CRGreathouse said:To date there is no published scientific research that proves that cell phone use decreases the risk of developing a tumor.