Linking cellphones to tumors

Re: David Lazarus’ column “Radiation risks: Still a tough call,” Sept. 9:

We lost my mother to brain cancer in March 2008. It was glioblastoma multiforme that had formed on the left side of her brain in a location that was close to her ear.

I posed the link between her cancer and cellphone use. The neurosurgeon’s answer was, “Although there’s no conclusive evidence to suggest there is a link, I use my phone sparingly and always with an earpiece. Why take the chance?”

I have dramatically reduced the use of my iPhone. Believe me, this cancer we contended with as a family was the worst experience of my life.

Garrett G. Gatch

Ventura

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My husband had a seizure and was diagnosed with a malignant glioma. He held his cellphone to the same side of his head as where the tumor lies.

Brain tumors are insidious beasts and destroy entire families. I testified to Congress on this last September. I am heading back to D.C. this week for a three-day conference and Senate hearing on this subject. Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Pa.), who also has a brain tumor, has called the hearing.

I have met many others in the past year who know that cellphones caused their brain tumor or killed their loved one. This is most definitely tobacco all over again, and this madness has to stop.

Ellie Marks

Orinda, Calif.