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provide some of the data that are needed. Lifetime
animal exposure studies could be completed in a few
years. However, very large numbers of animals would be
needed to provide reliable proof of a cancer promoting
effect if one exists. Epidemiological studies can provide
data that is directly applicable to human populations, but
ten or more years follow-up may be needed to provide
answers about some health effects, such as cancer. This
is because the interval between the time of exposure to a
cancer-causing agent and the time tumors develop — if
they do — may be many, many years. The interpretation
of epidemiological studies is hampered by difficulties in
measuring actual RF exposure during day-to-day use of
wireless phones. Many factors affect this measurement,
such as the angle at which the phone is held, or which
model of phone is used.
6. What is the FDA doing to find out more about the
possible health effects of wireless phone RF?
The FDA is working with the U.S. National Toxicology
Program and with groups of investigators around the
world to ensure that high priority animal studies are
conducted to address important questions about the
effects of exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) energy.
The FDA has been a leading participant in the World
Health Organization International Electro Magnetic
Fields (EMF) Project since its inception in 1996. An
influential result of this work has been the development
of a detailed agenda of research needs that has driven
the establishment of new research programs around the
world. The project has also helped develop a series of
public information documents on EMF issues.