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WHO expert group classifies mobile phones as “possibly carcinogenic” to humans

BMJ 2011; 342 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.d3483 (Published 03 June 2011) Cite this as: BMJ 2011;342:d3483
  1. Susan Mayor
  1. 1London

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields produced by mobile phones have been classified as “possibly carcinogenic” to humans by an expert working group meeting to review the evidence.

The WHO/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) working group reviewed all available research evidence to assess the potential carcinogenic hazard from exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. It looked at personal exposure associated with use of wireless telephones; environmental exposure associated with transmission of signals for radio, television and wireless phones; and occupational exposure to radar and microwaves.

The group of 31 scientists from around the world found “limited” evidence for increased risk of glioma and acoustic neuroma in users of wireless phones. This means research …

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