A new study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) has found no evidence of an increased risk of brain cancer associated with mobile phone use. The study, which analysed research from around the world, offers a reassuring message amid the widespread use of mobile phones and wireless technology.

Despite the huge increase in mobile phone use over the past few decades, the review found no corresponding increase in brain cancer incidence. This includes people who use mobile phones for long periods of time, even those who have been using it for more than a decade, reports Reuters.

The review published on Tuesday examined 63 studies conducted between 1994 and 2022. The research was conducted by 11 investigators from 10 countries, including experts from the Australian Government’s Radiation Protection Authority.

The review focused on the effects of radiofrequency radiation, which is used in mobile phones as well as other devices such as TVs, baby monitors and radar. “None of the key questions studied showed an increase in risk,” said Professor Mark Elwood, co-author of the study and an expert in cancer epidemiology at the University of Auckland in New Zealand.

The analysis considered a variety of cancer types, including brain cancer in both adults and children, as well as cancers of the pituitary gland, salivary glands and leukemia. The review also considered risks associated with mobile phone use, base stations, transmitters and occupational exposure to radiofrequency radiation. Other cancer types will be addressed in a separate report.

This review matches previous studies, which found no definite link between mobile phone use and cancer. The WHO and other international health organisations have previously stated that there is no conclusive evidence that radiation from mobile phones has harmful effects on health. However, they have called for continued research to monitor any potential risks.

Currently, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies mobile phone radiation as a “probable carcinogen”, or class 2B. This classification is used when there is not enough evidence to completely rule out a possible link. Given new data since the last assessment in 2011, the agency’s advisory group has recommended that this classification should be re-evaluated as soon as possible.

WHO is expected to release its updated assessment in the first quarter of next year. This will provide further clarity about the potential health risks (if any) associated with mobile phone use.