Joel Moskowitz, a prominent researcher at the School of Public Health at UC Berkeley and director of Berkeley’s Center for Family and Community Health, has been a vocal advocate for public awareness about the potential health risks of electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation from cellphones. His dedication to this cause spans over a decade, and his work is driven by a commitment to public health and a belief in the power of informed decision-making.
Moskowitz’s journey into the realm of EMF radiation research began somewhat unexpectedly. His primary focus for over 40 years has been on tobacco-related disease prevention. However, his interest in cellphone radiation was piqued in 2008 when Dr. Seung-Kwon Myung, a physician scientist from the National Cancer Center of South Korea, came to spend a year at the Center for Family and Community Health. Together, they reviewed literature on the biological effects of low-intensity microwave radiation, emitted by cellphones and other wireless devices. Initially skeptical, Moskowitz found himself increasingly convinced of the potential risks associated with long-term exposure to this type of radiation.
If you’re interested in learning about what other experts in the field have to say on EMF radiation, read more here. To read on other notable influencers such as Tim Ferris on the Huberman Lab, read here and for RFKJ on Joe Rogan, read here.
His research has led him to conclude that there is a statistically significant increase in brain cancer associated with approximately 1,000 hours of lifetime cellphone use. This equates to about 17 minutes per day over a 10-year period. His findings, however, have been met with skepticism by some in the scientific community, largely due to a lack of ongoing research in the United States since the 1990s.
Despite the controversy, Moskowitz remains steadfast in his mission. He points out that over 250 scientists who have published more than 2,000 papers and letters in professional journals on the biological and health effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields produced by wireless devices have signed the International EMF Scientist Appeal. This appeal calls for health warnings and stronger exposure limits, indicating that there is a significant body of scientists who agree that this radiation is potentially harmful to our health.
Moskowitz’s work extends beyond research. He is also a vocal critic of the telecommunications industry’s influence over the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the lack of government funding for research into the health effects of radiofrequency radiation. He likens the telecommunications industry’s tactics to those of the tobacco industry in the mid-20th century, using marketing and controlling messaging to downplay potential health risks.
Read more about how the FCC guidelines are outdated here, and what the current regulations are around the world here.
His concerns are not limited to current technology. The advent of 5G, the fifth generation of cellular technology, brings with it the use of millimeter waves, which are much higher frequency than the microwaves used by 3G and 4G. These waves are largely absorbed in the skin, sweat glands, peripheral nerves, eyes, and testes. They can also harm insects and promote the growth of drug-resistant pathogens. The rollout of 5G will necessitate a significant increase in the number of cell antenna sites, potentially leading to more widespread environmental effects.
With the rapid dissemination of 5G, learn more about what the shift from 4G to 5G means here, why advocates against the new technology are speaking out here and what sort of effects you might be exposing yourself to here.
In the face of these challenges, Moskowitz remains a beacon of advocacy and education. He offers practical advice for reducing exposure to wireless radiation, such as minimizing use of cellphones, maintaining distance from devices, and using devices only when the signal is strong. He also encourages people to learn more about local groups working to educate policymakers and urge them to adopt regulations and exposure limits that protect public health and the environment.
Joel Moskowitz’s work is a testament to the power of dedicated research and advocacy. His commitment to uncovering the truth about EMF radiation and his efforts to educate the public about its potential risks make him a leading figure in the field of public health in the digital age. His work underscores the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to protect our health in an increasingly connected world.
