There is sometimes media speculation and stories suggesting a possible link between mobile phones and cancer, and this naturally can raise public concern. The mobile phone industry relies on the expert advice from national and international health agencies on mobile phone safety.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and other health agencies conduct ongoing reviews into mobile phones, base stations and health looking at all of the available scientific research.

Specifically on mobile phones and health, the WHO says:

"The overall evidence available to date does not suggest that the use of mobile phones has any detrimental effect on human health" http://www.who.int/peh-emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/index3.html

The most recent update was from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World health Organization says:

"With reference to radio frequency, available data do not show any excess risk of brain cancer and other neoplasms associated with the use of mobile phones" IARC World Cancer Report 2008

The International safety guidelines for mobile phones are designed to protect people of all ages, including children, and incorporate large safety factors. However, recognising that some parents may be concerned about mobile phone usage by children, the WHO advises:

“Present scientific evidence does not indicate the need for any special precautions for the use of mobile phones. If individuals are concerned, they might choose to limit their own or their children’s RF exposure by limiting the length of calls, or by using ‘hands-free’ devices to keep mobile phones away from the head and body.”

AMTA takes all aspects of mobile phone safety very seriously and supports ongoing research into this important area.

ABC’s Lateline and Channel Nine’s 60 Minutes have or are running programs highlighting claims of some scientists or neurosurgeons that run counter to the WHO’s position on mobile phones and health.

Further information is available from the World Health Organisation, EMF Explained.info, and AMTA’s web site