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Cell phones: do they cause, hasten or otherwise affect one's development of cancer or not? This question seems to have been batted back and forth for a few years now. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently analyzed current research on the topic, and has declared their own opinion on the matter (CNN article here). Their stance is that cell phones should be defined as a carcinogen- a substance that promotes the development of cancer, but not a direct cause of cancer. The WHO compares cell phone use's damage on par with health effects from "lead, engine exhaust and chloroform." While not making the direct link between cell phone use and incidence of cancer, the types of cancer which have been shown to increase with use are two types of brain cancer: glioma and acoustic neuroma. Comparing the radiation given off by cell phones to a "very low powered microwave," the research author neurologist Dr. Keith Black makes this statement pertaining to how this may affect children: "Children's skulls and scalps are thinner. So the radiation can penetrate deeper into the brain of children and young adults. Their cells are at a dividing faster rate, so the impact of radiation can be much larger." So, cell phones aren't going anywhere as they're now an inextricable part of society. What's a person to do? Well, cell phone manufacturers suggest holding the phone away from the body while it's transmitting (such as during calls, texting, using the internet, etc.), and with Oregon law requiring drivers to use head sets and other away-from-the-head technology I think I'll start following their recommendations and hopefully reduce my chance of brain cancer at the same time!
Thanks for reading, responses are always welcome! -Angela
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Latest research looking into three studies found that there was a positive link between pesticide exposure while in utero and lower IQ scores when tested in childhood (last week's USA Today article here). Those pesticides which correlated with lower IQ scores are currently sprayed on our nation's non-organic fruits and vegetables. The research authors' solution? Wash your produce well. Well, how does one completely remove all pesticide residue from conventionally grown produce? Does any kitchen soap get rid of all the chemicals which have been sprayed on then soaked up by a fruit or vegetable? And would you even want scrub down all your fruits with Dawn? Organic produce is guaranteed to come pesticide-free, as well as being free of fungicides, vermicides, GMO and a whole host of other unnatural chemicals which are applied directly to our food and wash into the water supply. So, one may conclude that organic produce may just be a really smart thing for pregnant mothers to eat, though there's no need to stop eating organic when the baby comes! Thanks you for reading. I appreciate the support, comments and questions I've received thus far.
-Angela |
I'm Dr. Eloise Cortal, and I want to help you and your joints feel their very best.
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