Hi Shanderia
I have just read your article: You may be allergic to parts of cell phone. It is not far fetched for people to develop rashes after using cell phones, in fact I know people who cannot even use a cell phone because of the adverse health effects of exposure to electro magnetic radiation. These people often develop rashes when people nearby use cell phones or when they are exposed to radiation from cell phone mast antennas etc.
There is an important need to correct your statement - "Numerous studies have concluded there's no risk of developing brain cancer from cell phone use". This is not accurate because no study yet has proven that cell phones are safe and there is no risk. Numerous studies, most of them financed and influenced by the cell phone industry have not shown adverse effects of cell phone radiation yet numerous studies by independent scientists have shown that there are indeed many very serious health effects.
The document below your article was written by Dr. Neil Cherry in 2001. It should provide you with a much more detailed picture about the health effects of cell phones and electro magnetic radiation. I hope that you will report these facts and provide your readers with a warning about the true dangers of cell phones.
Yours sincerely
Martin Weatherall
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You may be allergic to parts of cell phone
Mobile phone dermatitis isn't being hotly debated for now. Developing a rash versus a chronic condition such as cancer is something most people might just take their chances with.
New disorder
About a week ago, the British Association of Dermatologists issued a warning about this new allergic skin disorder. Researchers became aware of the problem when several published case reports of patients with rash symptoms on their ears and face revealed the rash was caused by nickel in mobile phone handsets.
The researchers have sounded the alarm for doctors to be aware of the condition to avoid misdiagnoses and prompt consumers to get proper treatment.
A study by Brown University researchers in Rhode Island published this year shows 10 of 22 popular mobile phone handsets contain nickel.
Common ailment
Mayo Clinic reports nickel allergy is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. It is associated with jewelry, coins, watches, earrings, necklace clasps and much more.
Sensitivity to nickel is lifelong and may be genetic. Often, the symptoms mimic other skin woes. Those aware of their nickel sensitivity probably know what to do at home to manage the condition. Those not sure of their status should get a patch test conducted by an allergy specialist or dermatologist. For treatment, Mayo Clinic recommends over-the-counter corticosteroids and antihistamines, but avoid antibiotic creams.
This bit of news is more reason to limit cell phone use or at least purchase hands-free equipment for talking. Either way would lead to safer conversations.
Contact HealthScene editor Shanderia K. Posey at (601) 961-7264 or e-mail her at sposey@jackson.gannett.com.
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Cell phone radiation poses a serious biological and health risk:
Dr Neil Cherry
7th May, 2001
Environmental Management and Design Division
Lincoln University
Canterbury, New Zealand
neil.Cherry@ecan.govt.nz
