Mobile phones and wi-fi pose a health risk, say scientists
An appeal has been made to the United Nations and the World Health Organisation by 200 scientists from 39 nations to:
- address the emerging public health crisis related to cell phones, wireless devices, wireless utility meters and wireless infrastructure in neighbourhoods; and
- urge that the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) initiate an assessment of alternatives to current exposure standards and practices that could substantially lower human exposures to non-ionizing radiation.
The appeal is calling for tougher guidelines on exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and wireless technology. It states that there is growing evidence that EMFs are a risk to health and the environment.
The appeal asks for the introduction of precautionary measures, limit to EMF exposure - especially for children and pregnant women - and to educate the public that EMFs are mainly generated from mobile phones and cell masts, wi-fi and cordless phones.
The International EMF Scientist Appeal points out that the WHO should already be issuing warnings. The WHO's own research committee listed EMF radiation as a 'possible carcinogen' in 2011, but has done little with the findings. Instead, it follows the guidelines of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), which has stated that there is no evidence that EMFs and mobile phones pose any risk to health. According to What Doctors Don't Tell You magazine, the ICNIRP is mainly made up of personnel from the mobile phone industry.
The appeal points out that although "it is essential that industry be involved and cooperate in this process, industry should not be allowed to bias its processes or conclusions."
For the full appeal and further information see: www.emfscientist.org
