Radio waves from mobile phones 'damage DNA'

Fresh fears emerged today over the possible health risks of mobile phones.

A new EU-funded study has found proof that radio waves from mobile phones harm human cells and damage DNA.

The scientists behind the study today warned people not to use a mobile if there was a landline available, and if using one, always with a hands-free kit.

"We don't want to create a panic, but it is good to take precautions," said Franz Adlkofer, who led the study. He said definitive research into whether using a mobile could damage cells would take another four to five years.

The study, carried out by 12 research groups in seven European countries, examined the effects of radiation on animal and human cells.

It found that, after being exposed to electromagnetic fields typical for mobile phones, the cells showed a significant increase in DNA breaks. The damage could not always be repaired by the cell.

It is believed that damage to DNA can lead to cancer.

However, the mobile industry claimed the research was simply a "preliminary" study.