Brain Cancer is Increasing in Young People. Is There a Link to Cell Phone Use?

Written by Christine Bishara MD

Central Nervous System (CNS) cancers are now the second most prevalent type of cancer among those aged 1-19, and it has been observed that their incidence has increased annually by 1.37% since the late 1970’s.

Many believe that the recent increase in risk could be due to the more frequent exposure to Electromagnetic fields (EMF). Is there a link? Could this be a factor? 

Background Info:

There have been many epidemiological studies conducted to investigate possible links between exposure to the radiation in (EMFs) electromagnetic fields and cancer in both children and adults. 

There are two forms of radiation, Ionizing and non-ionizing.

• Ionizing radiation: Ionizing radiation is a type of radiation that uses mid to high frequency radiation and that has the potential to cause DNA damage with extended use. Some examples of ionizing radiation include radiation used in cancer therapy, x-rays, and CT and nuclear imaging. 

• Non-ionizing radiation: Non-ionizing radiation on the other hand is generally considered harmless. Some examples of this would include things such as radio waves that transmit audio sound through a radio, or the visual things you see through a television screen. Both bluetooth technologies and modern cell phones emit non-ionizing radiation as well. 

Ok… so the logical question arises then. Is there a correlation? Has cell phone use caused a rise in brain cancer incidence in children?

My Thoughts:

I reviewed a varied number of studies on the topic prior to writing this article. The majority of the studies that were done presented data on short term use and many were primarily focused on adults. The studies I came across for the greater part didn’t show any direct correlations to the use of electronic devices and increased risk of CNS tumors. There was one study, conducted by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) of note that showed that EMR waves emitted from cell phone devices can actually pass through the blood brain barrier and thus increase the risk of cancer. Children would be at greater risk to this since their brains are still developing and may allow deeper penetration of these waves. Another study also demonstrated that the electromagnetic frequencies emitted from these devices increased the permeability of the brain’s membranes as well as caused damage to neurons in rats. While the majority of the research indicates no link can be comforting to parents, we must also take into account that we don’t currently have any long term data to definitively say yes or no on the matter.

Possible Explanations: 

Although EMF exposure could explain the slight uptick in incidence, other factors that are involved in the development of CNS tumors, include:

• Genetic components (the building blocks to our DNA)
• Previous exposure to ionizing radiation for treatment of other cancers
• Environmental Factors such as toxins
• The Increase  incidence of obesity in young children

Suggestions/ Precautions for Both Children and Adults:

• Reduce the amount of cell phone usage

• When not in use keep cellular phones at a distance 

• Turning off WiFi routers when not in use

• Using Airplane mode on your cell phone.

• Limit the use of wireless earphones or headphones

• Use the speakerphone

• Utilize texted messages instead of talking on your phone

• Place a Shungite stone near laptops, televisions etc. This can help absorb some of the EMR waves emitted by these devices

• Avoid using bluetooth enabled devices or cell phones while in fast moving vehicles. Usage in cars and trains may generate more electromagnetic waves.

Symptoms:

It’s normal for parents may become concerned about their children having brain tumors, but remember that they are still considered rare. Most of the symptoms that parents fear to be cancer are usually not. Nevertheless, it is still important to have some knowledge about some of the most common symptoms. Be sure to consult with a pediatrician if your child show signs of any of the following symptoms:

• Recurring and persistent headaches

• Any disturbance in the way they walk or changes in balance

• Chronic vomiting that is without a known cause, such as an infection. Vomiting related to central nervous system (CNS) malignancies can sometimes present as projectile, especially in the morning

• Any sudden onset weakness in arms or legs

• Visual disturbances that may include blurred vision, sudden loss of vision, or restricted field of vision

• Seizures

Conclusion:

It is reassuring to know that there is no consistent evidence that exposure to EMF from cell phones and other wireless devices creates a human hazard. However, many of the studies are not long term (longer than 10 years). Taking preventive measures like turning off WIFI routers when not in use, keeping cell phones at a distance before going to bed, using airplane mode, and keeping distance from EMF sources can help reduce exposure to EMF. By implementing these measures, we can enjoy the benefits of technology while also safeguarding our health.