For the past few years a controversial topic has been under serious speculation. The one staple of society these days, the cell phone, is under scrutiny for possibly causing cancer. Cell phones are known for emitting radiofrequency energy, which can be absorbed by brain tissues closest to where the phone is held. Studies made thus far have not shown any constant link between using your cellphone and brain, head, neck, or nerve tissue cancer.

However, children have a greater possible risk of developing brain cancer from this small amount of radiation than adults. This is especially attention-grabbing because the younger generation tends to get or use cell phones from increasingly early ages. A recent study from the National Cancer Institute showed that when people used a cell phone for at least 50 minutes, brain tissues on that side of the head showed more activity then on the other side of the head where the cell phone was not held.

While there have been no consistent links between cellphone use and cancer, Swedish studies found substantial tendencies in cancer risk for people who started using cell phones before age 20.

Ms. Alvarez, a science teacher, remarks that “Radiation is everywhere and only time will tell” whether or not there is a link between cancer and cell phone use.

However, Ms. Powers a biology and anatomy teacher says that “Everything has a link to cancer,” and “Everyone has cancer cells at any time, the only difference is if your body is able to eliminate them.” The ability to eliminate cancer cells “Depends on the individual and their immunity level and health status and their amount of phone use.”

To possibly reduce the exposure to a cell phone’s radiation, The FDA and FCC have suggested the following ways to stay on the safe side: Use a landline phone when possible; reserve the use of your cellphone for shorter conversations; and if possible, use a hands free device such as a Bluetooth.