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5. What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure from
wireless phones poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies of people actually
using wireless phones would 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 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 FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects
of wireless phone RF?
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).
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.
FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a
formal Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research
on wireless phone safety. FDA provides the scientific oversight, obtaining input from
experts in government, industry, and academic organizations. CTIA-funded research
is conducted through contracts to 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 radiofrequency 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 radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures.
FCC established these guidelines in consultation with 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.