Cell phone radiation linked to increased risk of brain cancer, professor finds

Cellphone use of 17 minutes per day over the course of 10 years is associated with a 60% increase in brain tumor risk, Joel Moskowitz, director of the UC Berkeley Center for Family and Community Health, found through his research.

Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Moskowitz’s study shows that cellphone radiation can increase the risk of cancer and nonmalignant tumors, neurological disorders and diseases and reproductive harm. These risks are also increased by Wi-Fi radiation.

Cell tower radiation can also cause neurological disorders including headaches, fatigue, memory and sleep problems and electromagnetic hypersensitivity, Moskowitz noted.

“First, minimize your use of cellphones or cordless phones — use a landline whenever possible,” Moskowitz said in an email. “If you do use a cellphone, turn off the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth if you’re not using them.”

In order to limit risk, Moskowitz said in the email that users should keep devices at least 10 inches away from the body and head to reduce exposure to radiation. He noted that when not in use, devices should be stored in a bag. If it is necessary for the phone to be stored in the back pocket, it should be kept on airplane mode.

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