WHO classifies cell phones as possibly carcinogenic

The International Agency for Research on Cancer, an arm of WHO, has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields — such as those emitted by cellular telephones — as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an increased risk for glioma associated with their use, according to a press release.

“Given the potential consequences for public health of this classification and findings, it is important that additional research be conducted into the long-term, heavy use of mobile phones,” Christopher Wild, PhD, director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), said in a press release. “Pending the availability of such information, it is important to take pragmatic measures to reduce exposure such as hands-free devices or texting.”

The IARC working group — consisting of 31 scientists from 14 countries — met in France from May 24 to May 31 to discuss the potential carcinogenic dangers associated with exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. The group analyzed available data on exposure, studies of cancer in humans, studies of cancer in experimental animals and the mechanistic and other relevant data.

The evidence was classified as limited among wireless telephone users for glioma and acoustic neuroma and inadequate to draw conclusions for other types of cancers, according to the release. Although the group did not determine the extent of the risk, one study of previous cell phone use found a 40% increase in the risk for gliomas among users who reported an average use of 30 minutes per day during a 10-year period.

“The evidence, while still accumulating, is strong enough to support a conclusion and the 2B classification. The conclusion means that there could be some risk, and therefore, we need to keep a close watch for a link between cell phones and cancer risk,” Jonathan Samet, MD, University of Southern California, and chairman of the IARC working group, said in a press release.

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