CDC report reveals debate among scientists on cellphone risks

New York

WHEN the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published new guidelines 18 months ago regarding the radiation risk from cellphones, it used unusually bold language: "We recommend caution in cellphone use."

The agency's website previously had said that any risks "likely are comparable to other lifestyle choices we make every day". Within weeks, though, the CDC reversed course. It no longer recommended caution, and deleted a passage specifically addressing potential risks for children.

Mainstream scientific consensus holds…