EARLIER this year, an independent group of experts commissioned by the
British government reported on whether the use of mobile phones might affect
health. It is an important issue. The use of mobile phones is growing
exponentially, and they are especially popular with teenagers.
Unfortunately, the report came back with one of those “read this as you like
but we are covered” conclusions: “It is not possible at present to say that
exposure to RF radiation, even at levels below national guidelines, is totally
without potential adverse health effects”.
The government has taken this to mean “no evidence of harm”. It should have
been read as “We are not sure, so let’s find out—and quickly”.
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This week there is more confusion over whether hands-free accessories
increase or decrease the amount of radiation entering the head, and whether that
radiation can be easily blocked
(see “Give us a ring”).
Let’s get some proper national and
international standards quickly, please. Just remember all those “no evidence
that . . .” statements at the beginning of the BSE epidemic.
