Cell Phones Cause DNA Damage in Lab Conditions

While doing my usual reading of Dr. Mercola's blogs, I came across some interesting reading about cell phones causing DNA damage under lab conditions. The original article can be found at USA Today 12/21/04.

According to the article, cells displayed significant cell damage via DNA strand breaks when they were exposed to radiation fields typical for mobile phones. According to USA Today, "The radiation used in the study was at levels between a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of between 0.3 and 2 watts per kilogramme. Most phones emit radio signals at SAR levels of between 0.5 and 1 W/kg". The DNA damage was permanent which could lead to replication of the damaged cell. The mutated cell thus could become a precursor to cancer.

The project leader for this research, Franz Adlkofer, advised using a land line instead of a cell phone if one is available and to use a headset on a cell phone whenever possible.

Although the DNA damage occurred under laboratory conditions and additional research is needed, I have to agree with Mr. Aldkofer to heed his advice about minimizing the use of cell phones or to use a headset when you do use a cell phone.