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Is radiofrequency exposure and brain cancer risk related?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Do we have an increased chance of developing cancer if we keep our smartphones or Bluetooth gadgets near our heads or under the pillow while sleeping?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Kanani Darshan Jayantilal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Darshan is a dedicated Medical Professional with four years of clinical experience. He earned his MBBS degree from GCS Medical College in 2019. Dr. Darshan has a strong interest in diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions, including infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, endocrinological issues, kidney diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatological conditions, and neurological problems. He is committed to providing accurate diagnoses, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care to all his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

I appreciate you signing up on iCliniq.

You now have exclusive access to expert medical opinion.

There is currently no strong scientific evidence to suggest that using smartphones or Bluetooth gadgets near the head or keeping them under the pillow increases the risk of developing cancer. However, there have been concerns about the potential effects of electromagnetic radiation emitted by these devices on human health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, which include those emitted by smartphones and Bluetooth gadgets, as possibly carcinogenic to humans. However, this classification is based on limited and inconsistent evidence, and the overall risk is considered to be low.

To reduce any potential risk, it is recommended to use hands-free options, such as a speakerphone or a wired headset, when making phone calls, and to avoid sleeping with smartphones or other electronic devices close to the head or body. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the devices in accordance with their intended purpose.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 26, 2023
Reviewed At December 16, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Darshan is a dedicated Medical Professional with four years of clinical experience. He earned his MBBS degree from GCS Medical College in 2019. Dr. Darshan has a strong interest in diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions, including infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, endocrinological issues, kidney diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatological conditions, and neurological problems. He is committed to providing accurate diagnoses, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care to all his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Darshan is a dedicated Medical Professional with four years of clinical experience. He earned his MBBS degree from GCS Medical College in 2019. Dr. Darshan has a strong interest in diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions, including infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, endocrinological issues, kidney diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatological conditions, and neurological problems. He is committed to providing accurate diagnoses, evidence-based treatments, and compassionate care to all his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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