EURO-MP Caroline Lucas has called for caution after a scientific study linked some Electromagnetic Fields – some caused by WiFi mobile ‘phones and email devices – with an increased risk of cancer.
In August the International BioInitiative Working Group - a renowned group of scientists and public health experts – published a report documenting evidence that some electromagnetic fields are a risk factor in some childhood and adult cancers.
It found that mobile phones and other wireless communications devices produced electromagnetic fields thousands of times stronger than levels reported to have cased sleep disorders, headaches, memory and concentration problems and other physical symptoms.
The report also notes the massive rise in such electromagnetic fields, warning that the current ‘explosion of new sources’ raised ‘serious scientific concerns over the health risks posed by long-term and cumulative exposure’.
Dr Lucas, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Environment Committee and the cross-party working group on consumer protection, said: “This report raises serious concerns about the long-term health impacts of wireless mobile phone and computer technology, referred to by some in the industry as ‘The 21st Century’s asbestos’.
“Mobile communications technology has an essential role to play in modern society – and the ability to use a range of devices brings myriad social, cultural and economic benefits. But these clear benefits aren’t worth sacrificing our children’s health for: we must exercise caution when it comes to the unknown impacts of what the report itself calls ‘an explosion
of new devices’.
“Public health authorities must fully examine these claims, and we should hold off on installing WiFi devices in schools and the homes of the most vulnerable until they have done so.”
I have written to the European Commission asking them to consider the report and investigate its findings with a view to revising public safety standards regarding radiation levels from sources of day-to-day electromagnetic field exposure.
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