The report makes four specific recommendations about cell phones:
a. Governments, the mobile phone industry, and the public
should take all reasonable measures to reduce EMR exposure,
especially from mobile phones, particularly exposure to
children and young adults who are likely most at risk for
brain and salivary gland tumors. The report recommends
texting, use of hands-free sets, and improved design of phones
which generate less radiation and make hands-free use more
convenient.
b. Governments should reconsider the scientific basis for the
present exposure standards “which have serious limitations
such as reliance on the contested thermal effects paradigm;
and simplistic assumptions about the complexities of radio
frequency exposures.”
c. Mobile phones should be required to have effective labeling
and warnings about potential risks for users.
d. Adequate funding should be provided for the “urgently
needed research into the health effects of phones” and base
stations. Funding could include industry grants and a small
fee on the purchase and/or use of mobile phones.
It is time for the U.S. to end its two decades of denial and
assume a leadership role in adopting precautionary measures to
reduce the potential harms associated with exposure to mobile
phone radiation. Otherwise we may a steep price in terms of
preventable health care costs, lost productivity, and reduced
quality of life.
Sylvie
Informant: Martin Weatherall