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Safety Guidelines
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 10 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 radiofrequency energy (RF). The
FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health
Organization International Electromagnetic 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. The
FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet
Association (CTIA) have a formal Cooperative
Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do
research on wireless phone safety. The FDA provides
the scientific oversight, obtaining input from experts in
government, industry, and academic organizations.
CTIA-funded research is conducted through contracts
with independent investigators. The initial research will
include both laboratory studies and studies of wireless
phone users. The CRADA will also include a broad
assessment of additional research needs in the context
of the latest research developments around the world.
7.How can I find out how much radio frequency
energy exposure I can get by using my wireless
phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines
that limit radio frequency energy (RF) exposures. The
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