Don't risk you cellphone making you sick

As cellphones are set to remain a standard part of daily life, it is prudent to remain aware of the debate surrounding whether or not there is a link between the development of cancer and the use of these communication instruments.

So says Bradley Du Chenne, spokesperson for Dial Direct Insurance who prides itself on its constant focus on technology and innovation.

The latest research from the Interphone study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, argues that overall, cellphone users have no increased risk of two of the most common forms of brain cancer - glioma and meningioma.

The research also found no evidence of risk with progressively increasing number of calls and longer call time.

However, this research did reveal a ‘tipping point’ level of exposure that causes cellphone use to become deadly - two studies reported a higher risk of a tumour located between the ear and the brain after using a cellphone for 10 years.

“Although the jury is still out about the extent to which cellphone electromagnetic radiation contributes to a number of forms of cancer, it is still wise to take this risk seriously and to change your habits regarding cellphone use to minimise risk,” advises Du Chenne.

Dial Direct offers the following tips to reduce your exposure to electromagnetic radiation:

• Keep cordless phones and cellphones out of bedrooms and areas that are frequently used.
• Keep cellphone calls to a maximum of 10 minutes at a time, and alternate the phone between each ear every minute or so.
• Using a hands-free kit means that one does not need to place the phone against the head, close to the brain - an added benefit is safer driving!
• Keep your cellphone 10cm or more from your body - this greatly reduces radiation risks compared with carrying it in your pocket or on your belt.
• Children and teenagers are particularly at risk of harmful electromagnetic radiation, and limiting the time spent using a cellphone in these age groups is a pragmatic move.

“In some cities in the US, Canada, Scotland and New Zealand, cellphone towers and antennae have been banned from schools and their surroundings,” says Du Chenne.

The facts surrounding the role cellphones play in the development of cancer still remains unclear and highly disputed. However, as with most things in life, prevention is better than cure.