The rumor’s circulated for years: Excessive use of cell phones can cause malignant brain tumors.

Now the debate’s been revived with wild speculation about a link between Senator Edward Kennedy’s cancer and his use of a mobile phone.

How many employees in your organization spend a big chunk of their days with cell phones smacked up against their ears? The answer’s likely “Plenty.”

Many researchers say there’s no evidence that proves the link. But an Australian neurosurgeon recently made headlines after conducting a review of data on the topic.

The low-level radiation emitted by mobile phones is thought to be the possible cause of cancerous tumors by some researchers.

The Australian doc says these kinds of tumors are slow to develop and cell phones haven’t been in use long enough to disprove the connection.

Though the link isn’t crystal clear, if your company issues mobile phones or mandates their use for some workers, you may want to think about taking some precautions now that will prevent future tragedy and the lawsuits that can often follow.

One suggestion from health pros: Use wired earphones with small microphones attached. This keeps the phone away from the head. (Note: Bluetooth sets won’t help. They emit the same kind of radiation as phones.)

Tags: Australia, cancer, cell phones, Ted Kennedy