Mobile phones 'may be linked to cancer'

Heavy mobile phones users face a higher risk of developing cancers, according to a landmark international study overseen by the WHO.

According to The Daily Telegraph newspaper, the decade-long investigation overseen by the World Health Organisation will publish evidence that heavy users face a higher risk of developing brain tumours later in life.

Even though the conclusion of the research will be revealed only later this year, a preliminary breakdown of the results found a "significantly increased risk" of some brain tumours "related to use of mobile phones for a period of 10 years or more" in some studies, the report in the British daily said.

The conclusion of the 20 million pounds study, while not definitive, will undermine assurances that the devices are safe.

Several countries, notably France, have started strengthening warnings in this regard and American politicians are urgently investigating the risks.