Investigation into Cell Phone Radiation and Health Risks

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is starting an investigation to see if radiation from cell phones poses any health risks to Americans.

HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon mentioned in a statement to FOX News Digital that, while the FDA has taken down a webpage with outdated information on cell phone radiation, HHS is continuing its research into electromagnetic radiation and health. This effort aims to identify any knowledge gaps, particularly with new technologies, to better ensure safety and effectiveness.

This inquiry is part of a broader strategic report released last year by President Donald Trump’s MAHA Commission, Nixon added. The report urges authorities to look into the effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) stemming from the widespread use of mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, cell towers, and wearable devices like smartwatches.

In a 2018 study, the National Institutes of Health found “clear evidence” that high levels of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) are linked to cancer in male rats.

Senior scientist John Butcher explained that rats and mice in their study were exposed to RFR throughout their bodies, unlike humans who mainly face exposure in specific areas, such as the tissues near where they hold their phones. Butcher also noted that the levels and duration of exposure in their research were greater than typical human experiences.

However, this particular study did not focus on RFRs related to Wi-Fi or 5G networks.

Health Department Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressed concerns about electromagnetic radiation in a recent interview, stating that it’s a significant health issue. He emphasized that the department is very worried about it.

A representative from CTIA, which is a trade group for cell phone carriers, responded by saying there is no dependable evidence linking wireless devices to health problems. They mentioned that the global scientific community largely agrees that radiofrequency energy from devices like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile phones hasn’t been shown to cause any health issues.

The World Health Organization has stated on its website that research indicates “no adverse health effects are causally related to exposure to wireless technology.”

In the U.S., mobile phones must meet Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines on radio frequency (RF) exposure. The FCC measures RF exposure with a metric called Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which assesses how much RF energy the body absorbs.

To be sold in the U.S., cell phones and similar devices must undergo testing to ensure they don’t exceed 1.6 W/kg (watts per kilogram) averaged over 1 gram of tissue.

The FCC notes that “no scientific evidence currently exists to establish a conclusive link between the use of wireless devices and cancer or other diseases.” However, government agencies are providing tips for reducing exposure, suggesting that Americans limit their wireless device usage, use speakerphone or earphones to keep devices away from their heads, and increase the distance between their phones and bodies. Sending text messages is also encouraged over talking when feasible.

Fox News Digital has reached out to HHS, NIH, and several major cell phone companies for further comments.