RFK, Jr., focuses his attention on the question of whether cell phones are safe. this is what science says
The potential health effects of radiofrequency waves emitted from cell phones have been the subject of debate for decades
The US Department of Health and Human Services is concerned about cell phones. Under the department, the Food and Drug Administration has taken down webpages that claimed the devices were safe. wall street journal. and HHS, headed by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Allegedly There are plans to research the possible health effects of radiation emitted from cell phones.
The FDA has removed online information that said scientists have not linked exposure to radiofrequency (RF) waves emitted from cell phones to health problems in users.
An HHS spokesperson said some of the removed webpages contained “outdated findings”. wall street journal. The spokesperson also said that researching cell phone radiation would “identify gaps in knowledge.” The agency issued a similar statement scientific AmericanSaying that the research was “guided by” President Trump’s MAHA Commission“
On supporting science journalism
If you enjoyed this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism Subscribing By purchasing a subscription, you are helping ensure a future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
The administration has not provided any new evidence for the move. So what does science say about cell phones?
It’s a “complex topic,” says Kenneth Foster, professor emeritus in the department of bioengineering at the University of Pennsylvania, who Study Health risks of cell phones.
“People have been debating about the health effects of RF radiation from cell phones for decades,” he says.
For years, the official position of federal health agencies such as the FDA was that there was no evidence of a causal relationship between cell phone use and cancer. That conclusion was also shared by the Federal Communications Commission, which regulates cell phones. still, some scientists There have been warnings about cell phones and potential health risks, including cancer, although more quality research is needed to fully understand what effects, if any, cell phones have on the body.
In 2011 the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, noted that radiofrequency waves “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” but it has not identified a causal link. (The agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment.) And some studies conducted on laboratory rats suggest that exposure to RF radiation may be linked to cancer. But it’s not clear whether those results would apply to humans, and studies in humans have been inconsistent and limited in scope and efficacy.
However, it’s clear that cell phones have a clear negative health impact — on our mental health, says Foster.
“While there appears to be strong evidence of cognitive effects from excessive use of cell phones and screens, this is an isolated case,” he says. “Don’t even text while driving!”
It’s time to stand up for science
If you enjoyed this article, I would like to ask for your support. scientific American He has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most important moment in that two-century history.
i have been one scientific American I’ve been a member since I was 12, and it’s helped shape the way I see the world. Science Always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does the same for you.
if you agree scientific AmericanYou help ensure that our coverage focuses on meaningful research and discovery; We have the resources to report on decisions that put laboratories across America at risk; And that we support both emerging and working scientists at a time when the value of science is too often recognised.
In return, you get the news you need, Captivating podcasts, great infographics, Don’t miss the newsletter, be sure to watch the video, Challenging games, and the best writing and reporting from the world of science. you can even Gift a membership to someone.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you will support us in that mission.
