Can wi-fi cause cancer? The answer is a little unsettling

Technology is intertwined into our lives by now. One such imperative wireless technology is Wi-fi. Smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices are connected to the Internet using it. Actually, it's likely that you're using a Wi-fi-connected device to read this article. However, there are a few reports doing the rounds around the possibility of wifi causing cancer. How true is that? Let’s investigate.

Wi-fi uses electromagnetic radiation, a form of energy, to transmit data. Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are regions produced by the radiation. There are worries that Wi-fi radiation can lead to cancer and other health problems. However, there aren't any documented health dangers for people at this time. Let's examine the current body of research on Wi-Fi and cancer.



Wi-fi produces non-ionizing radiation, a type of radio frequency radiation. Fortunately, non-ionizing radiation does not cause damage to the DNA, and therefore, it is not linked to cancer. In 2011, some evidence suggested that Wi-Fi might have an effect on normal cells, potentially leading to cancer. However, subsequent studies have produced conflicting results, and the current consensus is that Wi-Fi does not cause cancer.

According to Dr. Ashish Upadhyay, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Fortis Anandapur, Kolkata, “Wi-fi uses non-ionizing radiation, which has radio frequency vibrations. The Electromagnetic Field (EMF) emitted by Wi-fi is within safety limits and is regulated by the board and extensive monitoring has found no link between Wi-Fi and cancer or other health hazards.”




The World Health Organization (WHO) published a report in 2011 suggesting a possible link between Wi-fi and cancer. However, later studies have contradicted these findings. It is essential to reassure the public that Wi-fi does not damage DNA and, therefore, should not be linked to cancer. Spreading accurate information can help alleviate unnecessary fear and concern.

According to one PubMed paper, Wi-fi lowers the activity of antioxidant enzymes that help rats fight oxidative stress. However, animals are used in the majority of research that has looked at the connection between Wi-fi and cancer. Additionally, such findings have been equivocal. This question does not yet have a definitive answer. This is because there isn't any conclusive proof that Wi-Fi or electromagnetic fields in general cause cancer.