Cellphones can be dangerous

Published 6:56 am Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Warning: That cellphone you’re using really mayb e dangerous to your health.

On Tuesday, a panel of experts linked to the World Health Organization, released a report saying cell phones are “possible cancer-causing agents.”

The report puts cellphones in the same category as the pesticide DDT and gasoline engine exhaust, says the Associated Press.

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The study indicates a higher rate of two types of brain tumors among cellphone users, although the data admittedly is still being reviewed and study.

This isn’t the first study to link cellphones to an increased rate of brain tumors, but scientists overwhelmingly say the studies are still continuing.

Despite the words of caution from international scienctists, we suspect most people will do little to alter the way they use their cellphones. These devices have become ubiquitous in recent years, permeating our soiciety at every level.

And, we still maintain that the greatest health risk from these phones likely comes from distracted drivers, who are either talking on the phones or worse yet, texting, while driving.

According to federal data released last fall in the American Journal of Public Health, an estimated 16,000 people died in the United States in accidents caused by drivers who were texting behind the wheel.

“Distracted driving,” as the experts call it, is an increasing concern. More than 30 states have enacted legisation prohitibing texting while driving, but it is difficult to enforce.

Insurance companies are taking the message to the classrooms, in hopes of stopping the spread of distracted driving among teens.

While the scientists continue to determine just how dangerous our ever-handy cellphones are to our health, we’d do well to remember these cloying devicies really can be a health threat if we’re using them behind the wheel.