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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 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 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
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