An epidemiological review of mobile telephones and cancer.

Mobile telecommunication technology became commercially available about 20-25 years ago in different countries around the world. The industry has grown exponentially over the years and, currently, the number of mobile phone users is estimated to be over 3.8 billion, more than half the world's population. Thus, because of such a large population-at-risk, any health hazard from these devices promises to have a large epidemiological impact. Intense speculation and investigation into the relationship between mobile phone usage and cancer has led to the publication of numerous, often contradictory, reports on this subject. This review aims to provide a large body of reported evidence to help medical professionals disseminate evidence-based information to their patients.

Health hazards of mobile phones: an Indian perspective.

The mobile phone industry has been one of the fastest growing industries in modern history. Today, India has million mobile phone users, and mobile phones account for 88% of all telecommunication users. The rural sector accounts for more than 25% of all wireless phone users and this proportion is bound to grow as affordability of mobile phones continues to increase. In the years ahead, an ever-increasing number exposed for long periods of time to radiation from mobile phones. In 2008, the Telecom Commission (the policy-making body of the Department of Telecommunicatics, Government of India) adopted the emission guidelines prescribed by the International Commission on Non-Protection (ICNIRP). Studies have demonstrated that usage behaviours, such as duration of usage and predominant, one-sided use of mobile phones are some of the chief risks that increase likelihood of hazards resulting from mobile phone use. This article attempts to present the basic biophysics of these devices and explain the health hazards of electromagnetic radiation exposure in terms of thermal and non-thermal effects. We also present some preventive measures that can reduce the risk of these hazards.

Disorders of potassium homeostasis: pathophysiology and management.

Disorders of potassium homeostasis are common electrolyte abnormalities encountered in hospitalized patients. Hypokalemia and hyperkalemia have been estimated to occur in about 21% and 3% of hospitalized patients, respectively; though the morbidity and mortality associated with the latter is significantly higher. Potassium is a predominantly intracellular ion and the understanding of its dynamics between intra- and extracellular fluid milieus, along with its handling by the kidneys, is important in the diagnosis and treatment of potassium disorders. This article aims to provide a clinically relevant update on management of potassium disorders for internists.