London - October 21, 2011
The possible link between cellphones and cancer is something that's worried people for years.
"I think there is a link, frankly," said Nan Hendrie of Scotland. "Yes, I do."
But researchers in Denmark say their new study shows long-term use of a cellphones does not cause brain cancer. The largest study of its kind examined 350,000 people who used cellphones over an 18-year period. Scientists found cell users were not at greater risk of developing brain cancer.
"They didn't find an excess risk of tumors in their head or central nervous center tumors which is reassuring," said Paul Elliott, an epidemiologist at Imperial College in London.
But Elliott says more research must be done on people who use a cellphone for decades.
More than 5 billion people worldwide use cellphones. Many say the convenience will always outweigh any potential health risk.
Health experts say texting or finding other ways to keep your phone away from your head are always good ideas.
"Use a hands-free device because you'll reduce exposure," Elliott suggested.
Some experts also recommend not keeping your cellphone in your pocket as a way to reduce your exposure.
Danish scientists admit their study was somewhat limited because they examined personal accounts, not corporate ones, and business people usually spend more time on the phone.
