Does the radiation emitted by Wi-Fi devices cause cancer?

 There is currently no strong scientific evidence that the radiation emitted by Wi-Fi devices, such as routers, causes cancer. Wi-Fi uses radiofrequency (RF) radiation, a type of non-ionizing radiation, which means it does not have enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons or damage DNA directly, unlike ionizing radiation (like X-rays or gamma rays), which is known to cause cancer.

Key Points:

1. Non-ionizing Radiation: Wi-Fi operates at frequencies similar to those used by mobile phones, microwave ovens, and radios. These frequencies fall in the range of non-ionizing radiation, which is generally considered safer than ionizing radiation because it lacks the energy to cause DNA damage, which could potentially lead to cancer.

2. World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO and other regulatory bodies, such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), classify RF radiation as a "possible carcinogen" (Group 2B). This classification means that there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans. This category also includes things like pickled vegetables and coffee, indicating that the level of risk, if any, is likely very low.

3. Health Organizations' Consensus: The American Cancer Society and Cancer Research UK state that there is no consistent or conclusive evidence that Wi-Fi or other RF radiation sources at the levels typically encountered in homes (like Wi-Fi routers) cause cancer or other health problems.

4. Exposure Levels: Wi-Fi routers emit very low power signals, especially when compared to other devices like cell phones, which people hold directly against their heads. The exposure from a router placed in a room, even for children, is significantly lower than more direct exposures, such as using a smartphone.

Recommendations:

• While no substantial evidence links Wi-Fi to cancer, it's always wise to minimize unnecessary exposure to any type of radiation where practical. For example, you can place the Wi-Fi router at a distance from sleeping areas or use wired internet connections for devices when possible.

Conclusion:

Wi-Fi routers emit low levels of non-ionizing radiation, and there is no strong scientific evidence linking them to cancer. For most families, having a Wi-Fi router in the children's room should not pose any significant health risks. However, for peace of mind, keeping electronic devices at a reasonable distance from sleeping areas is a common precaution.

Sources:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• American Cancer Society
• International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)