Note: This study found no significant biological effects under its experimental conditions. We include all studies for scientific completeness.
Time trends (1998-2007) in brain cancer incidence rates in relation to mobile phone use in England
No Effects Found
Authors not listed · 2011
No overall brain cancer increase found in England 1998-2007 despite mobile phone growth, but temporal lobe cancers did rise slightly.
Plain English Summary
Summary written for general audiences
Researchers analyzed brain cancer rates in England from 1998-2007 to see if mobile phone use (which increased dramatically since the early 1990s) led to more brain tumors. They found no overall increase in brain cancer incidence despite widespread mobile phone adoption. Small increases in temporal lobe cancers were observed but would represent less than 1 additional case per 100,000 people.
Cite This Study
Unknown (2011). Time trends (1998-2007) in brain cancer incidence rates in relation to mobile phone use in England.
Show BibTeX
@article{time_trends_1998_2007_in_brain_cancer_incidence_rates_in_relation_to_mobile_phone_use_in_england_ce750,
author = {Unknown},
title = {Time trends (1998-2007) in brain cancer incidence rates in relation to mobile phone use in England},
year = {2011},
doi = {10.1002/bem.20648},
}Quick Questions About This Study
No overall increase was found from 1998-2007 despite widespread mobile phone use. However, researchers did observe small increases in temporal lobe cancers (where phones are held) in both men and women during this period.
According to this study, the observed temporal lobe cancer increases would represent less than 1 additional case per 100,000 people over the 10-year study period if caused by mobile phone use.
Cancer typically takes decades to develop, and this study only examined 1998-2007 data. The authors note that nearly two decades had elapsed since mobile phone introduction, but longer observation periods may be needed.
Temporal lobe cancers increased in both men and women, while parietal lobe, cerebrum, and cerebellum cancers decreased in men only. The temporal lobe is closest to where phones are typically held.
The authors concluded no urgent interventions were needed, but absence of large population increases doesn't prove safety. Individual risk factors and longer-term effects require continued monitoring and research.