Mobile phone radiation and the risk of cancer; a review

Afr J Med Med Sci. 2008 Jun;37(2):107-18.

Abstract

With the licensing of mobile phone operators about 7 years ago, Nigeria joined many countries where worries about the health risks (including carcinogenesis) of mobile phones have become common. Opinions have also been expressed by many, some of which were inaccurate in the light of scientific evidence. This article reviewed the current scientific evidence of the role of mobile phones as possible cancer risk. The preponderance of published research works over several decades including some with over ten years of follow up have not demonstrated any significant increase in cancer among mobile phone users. However, the need for caution is emphasized as it may take up to four decades for carcinogenesis to become fully apparent.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Brain Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Cell Phone*
  • Electromagnetic Fields / adverse effects*
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Morbidity / trends
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / epidemiology
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / etiology*
  • Radio Waves / adverse effects*
  • Risk Factors