US Pharm. 2010;35(1)(Oncology suppl):13. 

Maine could become the first state to require that cell phones carry warnings that the devices may cause brain cancer. Rep. Andrea Boland (D-Sanford) plans to introduce the bill in early 2010. Manufacturers would be required to label cell phones and packaging with warnings of the potential for brain cancer associated with electromagnetic radiation. Users, especially children and pregnant women, would be cautioned to keep the phones away from their head and body. In California, the city of San Francisco is also considering a similar warning. 

Currently, there is no agreement among the scientific community regarding the dangers of long-term cell phone use. According to the National Cancer Institute, “Although research has not consistently demonstrated a link between cellular telephone use and cancer, scientists still caution that further surveillance is needed before conclusions can be drawn.” 

The Federal Communications Commission has set a standard for the specific absorption rate of radiofrequency energy, but it does not require cell phone manufacturers to divulge radiation levels. CTIA-The Wireless Association, a telecommunications industry group, maintains that all cell phones sold in the United States are safe. Overseas, however, the European Parliament has recommended stricter safety limits for cell phones due to health concerns.