Debating the safety of cell phone use

Drawing on published studies on the effects of cell phone use and recent global initiatives advancing cell phone safety, Dr. Davis discusses the various ways the microwave radiation given off by cell phones that are on, whether in use or not, affect the body, and offers practical recommendations for optimizing safe use. In the interview, she explores the health risks and concerns associated with cell phone use such as brain cancer, sperm motility and viability, long-term health implications for young people, and dementia in older people.

An award-winning scientist, Dr. Davis, whose most recent book, Disconnect, focuses on the little-known science underlying cell phones and health, recognizes the practical and societal value of cell phones but cautions that their use is not without health risks, calling upon industry and government to take the necessary steps to help people understand and minimize their risk. "In using phones, distance is your friend, because radiation exposure falls off dramatically the farther away from the brain or body you use your phone," Dr. Davis noted. "If you read the fine print warnings that come with all smart phones today they are quite clear -- phones should not be used next to the brain or body, or kept in the pocket," she added.