WHO review finds no conclusive link between mobile phones and cancer, but radiofrequency radiation still affects your body

A recent comprehensive review commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) has found no conclusive link between mobile phone usage and an increased risk of brain or head cancers, including glioma and salivary gland tumours. 

According to a release, lead author Ken Karipidis revealed, “We concluded the evidence does not show a link between mobile phones and brain cancer or other head and neck cancers. Even though mobile phone use has skyrocketed, brain tumour rates have remained stable.” Led by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (Arpansa), the review examined more than 5,000 studies on the subject.

This is a significant development as the harmful effects of radiofrequency waves emitted by mobile phones on the human body has been widely discussed, and while this might seem like reassuring news for the billions of people who rely on their phones daily, it raises another important question: What other effects, if any, do the radiofrequency (RF) waves emitted by mobile phones have on the human body?

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, Public Health Intellectual, tells indianexpress.com, “While the latest WHO-commissioned review suggests no conclusive link between mobile phone usage and brain cancer, it’s essential to acknowledge that RF radiation can interact with the human body in various ways, leading to subtle yet noteworthy effects.”

Potential physiological effects of RF exposure beyond cancer

While the definitive link between RF waves and cancer risk remains uncertain, extended exposure to these waves has been associated with several other physiological effects, according to Dr Hiremath:

Thermal Effects: The most established impact of RF exposure is tissue heating. When you hold your phone close to your head for extended periods, tissues in your head and ear absorb some of this energy, causing a slight increase in temperature. Although this temperature rise is typically minimal and within safety limits, prolonged and excessive exposure could potentially lead to thermal damage.

Oxidative Stress: RF radiation has been found to elevate oxidative stress in the body. This imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants can damage cells and tissues, which may contribute to the development of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders over time.

Research suggests that RF radiation exposure before bedtime can interfere with sleep patterns (Source: Freepik)

Sleep Disruption: Research suggests that RF radiation exposure before bedtime can interfere with sleep patterns, affecting both the quality and duration of sleep. This may occur due to the suppression of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, or through its influence on brainwave activity.

Cognitive Function: The effects of RF waves on cognitive function have shown mixed results in studies. While some research indicates potential impacts on memory, attention, and reaction time, other studies have found no significant effects. Further research is needed to clarify the long-term effects of RF exposure on brain function.

Reproductive Health: Though evidence is still limited, some studies suggest that RF radiation could affect male fertility, potentially impacting sperm count and motility.

Minimising risks: Precautions for safer mobile phone use

While the overall health risks of mobile phone radiation appear to be low, Dr Hiremath suggests,  it’s still wise to adopt some precautionary measures to minimise potential exposure.

Use Hands-Free Options: Use speakerphone, headphones, or earbuds to reduce the amount of RF radiation absorbed by your head and brain.

Limit Call Duration: Keep phone calls short and take breaks during longer conversations.

Text Instead of Talk: Text messaging or using instant messaging apps can reduce your exposure to RF waves compared to making phone calls.

Avoid Carrying Your Phone in Your Pocket: Carry your phone in a bag or purse rather than in your pocket to reduce exposure to your reproductive organs.

Use Airplane Mode or Turn Off Your Phone at Night: This can help reduce exposure to RF waves while you sleep and potentially improve sleep quality.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.