New study to probe claims of mobile phone child health risk

A major investigation into whether mobile phones and other wireless technologies affect children's mental development is getting under way.

The study - funded by the government and industry - will track 2,500 11- and 12-year-olds from September.

Dr Mireille Toledano, principal investigator of the study, explained that it will take account of both the cognitive advantages of these technologies, such as using them for brain training, and the potential disadvantages - including previously unsubstantiated claims that mobile phone exposure could raise the risk of developing brain cancer.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Tuesday 20 May.