The other day I saw a television program where they discussed the possible link between the use of cell phones and brain cancer. The various “experts” didn’t really have a firm answer but many concluded it might be wise to use an earphone instead of putting the cell phone right against the ear. Many experts thought the brain was just inside the ear. I tend to agree with that conclusion though I do see things that make me wonder if it is always true. I see people driving with that phone against their ear and judging by some actions I see, I tend to doubt the brain is anywhere near. In fact, I sometimes doubt it is even in the car at all.
This program made me think about two things. First, if I were just starting a medical career I’d think seriously about brain oncology as a field of specialization. If by chance there is even a slight correlation between the time one has a cell phone near the ear and brain cancer it is certain there is a whole generation coming that will be ripe for treatment pretty soon. I drove past a high school the other day just before classes were starting. I’d guess 90 percent of the students had some kind of electronic device stuck against the side of their heads apparently trying to get brain cancer before classes started.
The second thing is a bit different and a bit more personal. I always carry a cell phone in my pants pocket. I rarely use it but it’s always there. Now, if my slim knowledge of physiology is anywhere near correct, on most males that area is very close to the part (or parts) that has something to do with the process of creating babies. I was never quite clear about that but I wonder if my constant carrying that phone, even though I don’t use it, might hinder my having children if I decided I wanted to.
Maybe I’ll play it safe and switch to a shirt pocket. If I do decide to father another child I know I won’t be nursing it.
The Old Professor
Carmel, CA
June 9, 2008
