Research showing a link between cell phone use and cancer continues to
mount. Though preliminary, it is of some
concern, particularly in light of how many of us use cell phones and how often
we use them. Most recently, researchers
at Tel Aviv University (read the press release announcing the study here) compared what
they defined as heavy cell phone users – those who used their cell phone a
minimum of 8 hours per month – to non-users (how many of you only use your cell
phone 8 hours per month?!?). Compared to
the non-users, the heavy cell phone users had a significant increase in all
salivary oxidative stress measurements studied. Damage caused by oxidative stress is linked to both genetic and cellular
mutations, which can cause the development of tumors. Since it isn’t likely that any of us are
going to ditch our cell phones, what can we do? Dr. Block has the following suggestions:
“Though the data is preliminary, I believe it is wise to use caution,
and suggest we limit the amount of time we hold our cell phone to our ear and
use either a Bluetooth or the speakerphone whenever possible. This is particularly true for teenagers and younger
children, who will, presumably, be using this technology for many years to
come, and whose growing and developing brain is more vulnerable. With the evidence to-date suggesting the
potential for terrain disruption with increased oxidative stress, one might
want to counterbalance this with a higher antioxidant diet and perhaps, careful
supplementation.”
For more information on The Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment, call (847) 230-9107 or visit BlockMD.com.