Current Issues

View our Cell Phone Card
for more information.

The debate over whether long-term exposure to cell phones and wireless technologies can cause health problems has been going on for decades. Hundreds of studies have been conducted, but so far the results have not been conclusive, and the public is understandably concerned and confused.

What we do know for certain is that wireless devices and cell phone towers emit non-ionizing or low-frequency electromagnetic radiation, also called "RF radiation" or "microwave radiation," and we are exposed to more and more of it every day. This type of radiation is different from high-frequency ionizing radiation (the kind used for X-rays) which is known to cause cancer.

Several independent studies suggest that prolonged exposure to RF radiation can damage DNA and cause other health problems. Increases in malignant brain tumors, including gliomas, acoustic neuromas and meningiomas have been reported among heavy cell phone users. Connective tissues, salivary glands and other cells may also be affected.

The RF radiation is produced by the phone's antenna, which in most modern phones is embedded in the body of the phone itself. As a result, most phone manufacturers warn users not to hold the device directly against the head, but to maintain a separation of about one inch. See our Cell Phone Card for more information, or read the fine print of the instruction manual that came with your phone. (Incidentally, cordless [DECT] phones utilize similar technology, and the same precautions should be taken.)

The amount of RF radiation received from cell towers and wireless transmitters depends on proximity and duration of exposure. As with many other environmental health issues, chronic low-level exposures are suspected of having a greater impact than previously understood, and again, children (and unborn children) are particularly at risk.

Wireless transmitters, while undeniably convenient, should be kept away from schools and other places where children spend time and should always be unplugged when not in use.

Our world is becoming increasingly wireless, but until the science is clear, it is best to act with precaution. Please keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Reduce your overall use as much as possible. Use the speakerphone function (or a corded headset with an air tube) whenever possible.
• Always use a land line instead of a cell phone if available.
• Limit children's use of cell phones. Younger children should not use them at all.
• Unplug any domestic wireless transmitter when not in use (and especially overnight).
• Avoid wireless baby monitors and cordless phones which use similar wireless technology.
• If possible, use hard-wired internet connections in your home instead of wireless transmitters.

Web Resources and Publications
Secondhand Exposure to Cell Phone Radiation: An Emerging Public Health Problem? - UC Berkeley Center for Family and Community Health

Cell Phones and Cancer Risk - The National Cancer Institute

Frequently Asked Questions about Cell Phones - Environmental Working Group

Get a Safer Phone - Environmental Working Group

Cell Phone Radiation Levels - CNET Reviews

Wireless Devices and Health Concerns - Federal Communications Commission