The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has claimed that the World Health Organisation's research has not concluded that the radio frequency electromagnetic field is a cause for cancer.
In its latest report, the WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) warned that radiation from mobile phone handsets can cause cancer.
“It is significant that the IARC has concluded that radio frequency electromagnetic fields are neither a definite nor probable human carcinogen… The IARC has only concluded that it may still be possible that radio frequency fields are carcinogenic and has identified areas for further research,” COAI Director-General Rajan S. Mathews said in a statement on Thursday.
COAI represents GSM operators in India.
“The IARC has only assessed the possibility of risk, not the likelihood of risk, in normal use. Its assessment will now be considered by health authorities, who will determine its overall impact. While there is still further long-term epidemiology research to be done to clarify this possibility, we recommend that if people are concerned they can easily reduce their exposure to mobile phone signals,” Mr. Mathews said.
Keywords: Cellular Operators Association of India, mobile phones, WHO report, International Agency for Research on Cancer
Instead of dismissing the fears expressed in WHO report, COAI should consider having its own impartial study of the radiation effects of cell phones. It would be very unfortunate if business considerations compel COAI to NOT to conduct such a study. Many citizens who live in the close proximity of mobile towers are worried about radiation from these towers. COAI has done very little except dismissing such fears. We expect more mature action from COAI
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