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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.
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 (RF) energy exposures. The FCC
established these guidelines in consultation with the FDA
and the other federal health and safety agencies. The FCC
limit for RF exposure from wireless telephones is set at a
Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6 watts per kilogram
(1.6 W/kg). The FCC limit is consistent with the safety
standards developed by the Institute of Electrical and
Electronic Engineering (IEEE) and the National Council on
Radiation Protection and Measurement. The exposure
limit takes into consideration the body’s ability to remove
heat from the tissues that absorb energy from the wireless
phone and is set well below levels known to have effects.
Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF
exposure level for each model of phone to the FCC. The
FCC website (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives
directions for locating the FCC identification number on
your phone so you can find your phone’s RF exposure level
in the online listing.