Linda Birnbaum PhD, former director of the U.S. National Institutes of Environmental Health and the National Toxicology Program, presents a deep dive into the science behind cell phone and wireless radiation health impacts.
Dr. Birnbaum explains how a major NIH animal study found “clear evidence” of cancer, why children and pregnant women are more vulnerable and what people can do to protect themselves.
All wireless devices - including cell phones, Wi-Fi, and wireless equipment such as 5G and 4G cell towers - emit radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation. While this radiation is different from ionizing radiation (like the type emitted by X-rays), a growing body of research points to serious human health impacts. Adverse effects have been reported at legally allowed exposure levels. Research is ongoing and numerous scientists and medical experts recommend minimizing personal exposure to reduce risk.
Scientific studies referenced in this presentation:
- The US National Toxicology Program (NTP) $30 million animal study on long-term exposure to radiofrequency radiation found DNA damage, increased brain tumors, and increased heart tumors deemed “clear evidence of cancer.”
- The Ramazzini Institute study found the same tumors as the NTP did in their large scale study that used exposures mimicking cell tower radiation levels.
- An animal study by Lerchl et al. found tumor-promoting effects when RF radiation was combined with a known carcinogen at exposure levels well below government exposure limits.
- Children absorb cell phone radiation deeper into their brain proportionate to adults.
Resources to reduce exposure:
- The California Department of Public Health issued a cell phone advisory with ways to reduce cell phone radiation exposure.
- The Maryland State Children’s Environmental Health And Protection Advisory Council offers guidelines on how to reduce exposure for families.
- The Santa Clara California Medical Association issued Best Practices For School Technology.
