The French Health Ministry has issued a public warning against the excessive use of mobile phones, especially by children, even though it concedes there is no proof of any danger.
Following the launch of various handsets developed specifically for children the French Ministry of Health, Youth and Sports thought it would jump in and warn against excessive use, without conclusive evidence. Presumably so they can say 'we told you so' should anything happen in years to come.
"As the hypothesis of a risk cannot be entirely excluded, precaution is justified," the ministry said.
It recommended using mobile phones in moderation, especially among children, and gave advice on how users could reduce their exposure to any possible risk.
"One should use a mobile phone with good judgment, avoid calling when reception is poor, or during high-speed travel, and finally, keep the telephone away from sensitive areas of the body by using a hands-free kit," the ministry said.
Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot-Narquin said on France 2 television that mobile phones given to children could be useful safety items, but parents should be cautious about frequent use.
"Today, here and now, it does not appear useful to completely do away with, or ban, mobile phones for children ... but in keeping with the principle of caution, I want to inform parents completely," she said.
The French are also thought to be planning warnings regarding eating cheese before midnight, and making faces when the wind changes... just in case.
A British study released last September said mobile phones did not pose short-term health risks, although critics warn damaging effects might not have had time to appear given the short length of time mobiles have been available.
"As the hypothesis of a risk cannot be entirely excluded, precaution is justified," the ministry said.
It recommended using mobile phones in moderation, especially among children, and gave advice on how users could reduce their exposure to any possible risk.
"One should use a mobile phone with good judgment, avoid calling when reception is poor, or during high-speed travel, and finally, keep the telephone away from sensitive areas of the body by using a hands-free kit," the ministry said.
Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot-Narquin said on France 2 television that mobile phones given to children could be useful safety items, but parents should be cautious about frequent use.
"Today, here and now, it does not appear useful to completely do away with, or ban, mobile phones for children ... but in keeping with the principle of caution, I want to inform parents completely," she said.
The French are also thought to be planning warnings regarding eating cheese before midnight, and making faces when the wind changes... just in case.
A British study released last September said mobile phones did not pose short-term health risks, although critics warn damaging effects might not have had time to appear given the short length of time mobiles have been available.