Study: Long-time cell phone users at risk

LONDON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Long-term cell phone users face a higher risk of developing brain tumors later in life, researchers in Britain warn.

The risks were identified in a landmark decade-long study by the World Health Organization, The Daily Telegraph reported Saturday.

The study, which surveyed the cell phone habits of 12,8000 people in 13 countries, found a "significantly increased risk" of brain tumors among people who had used cell phones for 10 years or longer, Elisabeth Cardis, the head of the study told the Telegraph.

Cell phone use by children should be restricted, Cardis said, adding she does not advocate banning cell phones for children because of their importance in emergencies and in maintaining contact with parents.

Adults should moderate their use and reduce direct contact with the phone via wireless ear devices, headsets and other hands-free kits, authorities said.

A representative of the Mobile Operators Association said more than 30 other scientific surveys found no adverse health effects from cell phone use.