By E.B. Boyd

Ever since the first reports on electromagnetic fields (EMF) came out 20 years ago, the debate has raged: is the radiation from devices like microwaves, power lines, cell phones and computer monitors a danger to our health? The topic gained new prominence in May when three neurosurgeons, including CNN chief medical correspondent Sanjay Gupta, told the network they refuse to place cell phones against their ears for fear of developing brain cancer. And in July, the director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute issued a warning to his faculty and staff, advising them to limit cell phone use because of a possible cancer risk.

So what’s the verdict? The short answer: The jury is still out. Scientific research has yet to turn up a meaningful indication that EMF can damage human health. And the World Health Organization, which so far has been cautiously optimistic about cell phones, isn’t slated to issue a final report on their impact until sometime next year.

Many researchers have concluded that, unlike radiation from x-rays or nuclear materials, the type of radiation emitted by cell phones and electrical appliances can’t cause cancer. X-rays and nuclear material emit a type of radiation called “ionizing radiation,” which can alter the genetic makeup of human cells and potentially lead to cancer. Cell phones and power lines, however, emit non-ionizing radiation. Research so far has concluded that non-ionizing radiation is not able to alter cells’ genetic makeup. A summary by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has concluded that the research does not indicate “a significant effect” between cell phone use and human health. And the American Cancer Society has similarly concluded that there is little evidence so far to suggest that cell phones, computer terminals and microwaves cause cancer. They did, however, cite a 1999 study indicating a weak — but not totally discountable — connection between power lines and cancer, and they advised people to minimize exposure when possible.

One of the neurosurgeons speaking with CNN said his decision to keep his cell phone away from his head was a precautionary one, based on his belief that the devices simply haven’t been around long enough for us to know their long-term effects. The head of the Pittsburgh Cancer Institute had the same rationale: better to take the safe route now on the off chance that a study years down the road proves a definitive link, when it might be too late to prevent damage.

Advice from major advocacy organizations and federal agencies doesn’t suggest the average American should make major lifestyle changes because of electromagnetic fields. But if you’re feeling cautious, here are a few basic steps to take around the house:

•    Keep cell phones away from your head, especially if you’re a frequent user. This goes for wireless devices like Bluetooth as well. Use a headset or speaker instead.

•    When it comes to children, treat cell phones like wine — a few sips every now and again out of your glass are fine, but you wouldn’t serve them their own. Some researchers believe radiation from cell phones might affect brain development in children.

•    If you haven’t been moved to do this for environmental reasons, now’s the time to train yourself to unplug electric appliances, like juicers, microwaves, and hair dryers, when they’re not in use. An easy way to do this is to plug devices into a power strip with an on/off switch and use the switch to disconnect the electric current after use.

•    Position major electronics, like televisions and stereos, on outside walls so that their radiation doesn’t leak into adjoining rooms. If nothing else, don’t position any major electronics where there’s a bed on the opposite side of the wall.

•    Keep electronics, including digital alarm clocks, at least six feet from your bed.

•    If you have electric heating systems in your floors, use them to warm a room before you enter it, but turn it off once you’re using the room, especially if you have small children who play on the floor.

•    Does any one out there even use electric blankets any more? Probably a bad idea.