Do cell phones cause cancer?

With our dependence on technology at an all-time high, cell phones have become almost an extension of our bodies. Whether in our hands or our pockets, many of us use cell phones as our go-to way to quickly access information or just pass the time.

Over time, many have wondered about whether frequent or continuous exposure to radiofrequencies from cell phones are damaging our DNA, and in turn, increasing our cancer risk. Let’s take a closer look.

Where does the concern come from?

According to the Pew Research Center, 98% of U.S. adults now own a cell phone. Cell phones emit radiofrequency radiation, also known as cell signals, in the areas around them. For many cell phone users, this means the devices are emitting a signal around the head, neck, brain and other parts of the body.

 Does the radiation from cell phones cause cancer?

Cell phones emit non-ionizing radiofrequency radiation, which does not directly damage DNA. Although DNA damage can lead to cancer, there is no evidence that the radiofrequency from cell phones causes such damage.

根据 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the 美国国家癌症研究所 and others, there has been no identified link between brain, neck, head, breast – or any other type of cancer. Even with our dependence on cell phones increasing, the incidence of cancers has been stable. However, because studies look at trends over time in large groups instead of specific, smaller groups based on usage, data is limited.

Which cancer types are people concerned about when it comes to cell phones? 

Brain cancer is the main concern because we sometimes hold cell phones close to the head and brain. There is also concern for other head and neck cancers for the same reason.

Some question whether sleeping in close proximity to their phone can increase the risk of brain cancer. Others are curious about breast cancer risk if they carry a cell phone in their bra or rest their phone on their chest. However, these concerns are unfounded because proximity to cell phones does not increase cancer risk.

Is the cancer risk from cell phones greater for children? 

Children’s bodies and nervous systems are not fully developed, putting them at a higher risk for some health problems. Some may be concerned that this makes children more susceptible to damage from radiation emitted by cell phones, but according to the NCI, data from studies of children with cancer does not suggest children are at an increased risk of cancer based on cell phone use. Non-ionizing radiation applies the same to children as it does to adults.

Do Bluetooth earbuds or over-ear headphones pose a cancer-causing risk?

No; Bluetooth uses non-ionizing radiation and emits radiofrequency at significantly lower levels than cell phones.

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While you don’t need to worry about your cell phone giving you cancer, there are a lot of steps you CAN take to reduce your cancer risk. Research shows that up to 50% of cancer cases and about 50% of cancer deaths are preventable with the knowledge we have today.

Here are eight ways to reduce your cancer risk or detect cancer early, which leads to better outcomes.