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Because cell phones give off radiation and certain types of radiation are known to cause cancer, some people are concerned that cell phones may cause cancer. There have also been a few studies that show that it is possible that cell phones may cause cancer, but there have been problems with those studies. Most studies, organizations and government agencies agree that there is no current evidence that suggests that cell phones cause cancer.
Conversation Questions
- Where can I find information about facts on cell phones and cancer?
- What kinds of radiation cause cancer?
- How do I know when information related to cancer is true?
- Should I always trust any kind of health information?
Key Definitions
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RF waves - a form of weak radiation that is used by cell phones to send signals to cell towers. RF waves do not have enough energy to cause cancer.
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Tumors - a swelling of the part of the body that could be cancerous or not harmful
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5G - the newest form of cell phone technology that offers higher speeds than previous forms. While 5G uses faster RF waves, it is still too weak to cause cancer.
Recommended Reads
Research and Learn with Online Resources
Medical Myths, Lies, and Half Truths: Episode 18 - Myths about Magnets, Microwaves and Cell Phones
The Great Courses
Cell Phone Radiation Increases Cancers in Rats, but Should We Worry?
Gale in Context: Opposing Viewpoints
Other Resources
Webpages
Cell Phones and Cancer Risk, National Cancer Institute
This web page lists links in the forms of questions such as “Why has there been concern that cell phones may cause cancer?” and “Is the radiation from cell phones harmful?”. When you click on the links, the questions are answered with sources/studies.
Radiation Exposure from Cell Phones, American Cancer Society
This web page explains briefly how cell phones work, the type of radiation that is produced, and studies done on radiation exposure of the type that cell phones put out. It also summarizes information given by different agencies such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the US National Toxicology Program.
Videos
Link between cell phones and cancer unproven
Video that explains that there is currently little evidence of cancerous tumors resulting when using cell phones and it explains why.