In the scientific community, considerable debate swirls around the issue of cordless phone radiation. All cordless phones emit small amounts of electromagnetic radiation, but the impact of this radiation is unclear. While some researchers point to the serious illnesses associated with exposure to high levels of radiation, others argue that there is nothing conclusive to merit concern.

A Turning Point in the Field

Some of the most provocative findings in this area were published in a 1998 edition of the Lancet. Critically, the Lancet is one of the medical field's most well respected journals, and publications in this journal go through rigorous peer review to ensure quality research standards. The article in question documented a study in Germany that found that cellular phone use was associated with increases in blood pressure.

Although further links need to be established, this article was seminal in sparking debate over the safety of cordless phones. The basic question it raised was simple: If cordless phones can produce cellular changes that increase blood pressure, what other changes might we expect them to induce. Moreover, how significant are these changes? Are they minor fluctuations or lasting changes? Do they come and go or do they trigger a cascading effect throughout the body?

Scientists are a long way from answering these questions. However, preliminary evidence about human responses to low-level radiation exposure underscores the importance of future research. It also points to the utility of safety devices such as radiation shields that may block or diminish the effects of these emissions.