No proof of radiation health risks from mobile phones, DOST says

People who are constantly on the go can now scratch another item off the list of reported health risks from using mobile phones, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said.

 

The DOST's National Academy of Science and Technology said there is no conclusive evidence - at least for now - showing health risks from exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR).

 

DOST Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) executive director Jaime Montoya noted everyone is exposed to EMR whether voluntarily or not.

 

He said an average's person’s exposure to cell phones and their electromagnetic field is considered voluntary exposure.

 

“You know there is that risk but you still take that risk because you have to use the cellphone,“ he said at a technical session on e-health which tackled topics such as telemedicine.

 

Also, the DOST noted this finding is based on scientific studies which have already been published.

 

In contrast, involuntary exposure involves people not knowing they are exposed to EMR, like those living near high-voltage areas like transmitters of cell sites.

 

Unsure

 

Despite the finding, the medical community remains unsure if such exposure will translate to negative health effects in the long run.

 

Montoya said it may take 50 years to determine whether an adverse event directly related to the use of cellphones will crop up in any individual.

 

On the other hand, Montoya said there is no immediate finding yet on whether there are health implications of holding the cellphone close to the ear.

 

“The direct biologic effect of using cellphones close to the ear is that it gives warmth, it generates heat. This is because the rapid movement of molecules actually transforms to heat energy and that is the biological effect. But biological effect is not synonymous to the disease effect,” he said.

 

He noted these are high-intensity, short-period exposures to EMR. He said there is presently no information relating to long-term, low-intensity exposures.

 

A forum on E-health will be held on July 26 during DOST’s National Science and Technology Week slated from July 24 to 28, at the SMX Convention Center. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News