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COAI on WHO's study on cancer and cellphone

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CIOL Bureau
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MUMBAI, INDIA: In response to the WHO observation that cancer and cellphone use could have certain links, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) said that WHO reviewed the evidence critically.

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In a statement, COAI said the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which is a part of WHO, has classified exposure to radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields, which are emitted by mobile phones, wireless devices, radar and radio and television broadcasts as Group 2B.

It also said the classification details provided in annexed document explained that the overall evaluation was limited among users of wireless telephones for glioma and acoustic neuroma, and inadequate to draw conclusions for other types of cancers. The evidence from the occupational and environmental exposures mentioned above was similarly judged inadequate, it explained.

Rajan S Mathews, Director General responding to the above announcement by IARC said that it is significant that IARC has concluded that RF electromagnetic fields are not a definite nor a probable human carcinogen.

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“Rather, IARC has only concluded that it may still be possible that RF fields are carcinogenic and has identified areas for further research”. It may be noted that that a hazard is possible but not likely. IARC have only assessed the possibility of risk not the likelihood of risk in normal use. Their assessment will now be considered by health authorities who will determine its overall impact.”

He also pointed out that the classification of “possibly” carcinogenic to humans has been given to 240 other agents, including the pesticide DDT, engine exhaust, lead and various industrial chemicals and in fact, even pickled vegetables and coffee.

Mathews further responded that COAI recognises there is a public concern about the safety of mobile communications. It may however, be noted that the present safety standards remain valid and the IARC result should be understood as indicating the need for further research.

“In India we have adopted ICNIRP standards which are highly recommend by WHO as they have enough safety margins for all group of people including children,” COAI explained.

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