Rezumat
With the licensing of mobile phone operators about 7 years ago, Nigeria joined many countries where worries about the health risks (including carcinogenesis) of mobile phones have become common. Opinions have also been expressed by many, some of which were inaccurate in the light of scientific evidence. This article reviewed the current scientific evidence of the role of mobile phones as possible cancer risk. The preponderance of published research works over several decades including some with over ten years of follow up have not demonstrated any significant increase in cancer among mobile phone users. However, the need for caution is emphasized as it may take up to four decades for carcinogenesis to become fully apparent.
Keywords: Mobile phones; cancer risks
Résumé
Avec l’octroi des licences d’opérations des téléphones mobiles depuis 7 ans au Nigeria, les inquiétudes sur les risques de santé inclut carcinogenèse aux usagers de téléphones mobiles sont devenu commun. Ces opinions sont exprimées par plusieurs et d’autres sont imprécises vu les évidences scientifiques. Cette article revoyait l’évidence scientifique curente sur le role des téléphones mobiles ou potables comme risque possible du cancer. La prépondérance des recherches publiées depuis 10 ans de suivi n’a démontré aucune augmentation significative du cancer aux usagers. Cependant, la nécessité des précautions est envisagée, il pourrait suffir d’environ 40 ans pour que la carcinogenèse devienne apparente.
Correspondence: Dr. Abbas Abdus-salam, Department of Radiotherapy, College of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Email:b2dng@yahoo.com
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