The UK Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced it is to carry out a significant study into the health risks of wireless broadband.

During the study, all aspects of the effects of low-level radiation from wireless (WiFi) technologies will be explored, to confirm or deny reports of adverse health effects.

Wireless local area networks (WLANs) are becoming increasingly popular in homes and schools across the UK, as the take-up of broadband services becomes more prevalent. In the past, the HPA has warned of the non-essential use of mobile phones for children, due to low levels of radiation emitted.

Chief executive of the HPA professor Pat Troop said: "There is no scientific evidence to date that WiFi and WLANs adversely affect the health of the general population. Given this, there is no particular reason why schools and others should not continue to use WiFi or other wireless networks."

The HPA advises the NHS, local authorities and government agencies on public health issues.

Categories: Wireless Broadband

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