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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.
What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radiofrequency energy from my
wireless phone?
If there is a risk from these products--and at this point we do not know that there
is--it is probably very small. But if you are concerned about avoiding even potential
risks, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your exposure to radiofrequency
energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives,
reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless phone will reduce RF exposure.
If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every day, you
could place more distance between your body and the source of the RF, since the
exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For example, you could use a
headset and carry the wireless phone away from your body or use a wireless phone
connected to a remote antenna
Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless phones are harmful. But if
you are concerned about the RF exposure from these products, you can use measures
like those described above to reduce your RF exposure from wireless phone use.
What about children using wireless phones?
The scientific evidence does not show a danger to users of wireless phones, including
children and teenagers. If you want to take steps to lower exposure to radiofrequency
energy (RF), the measures described above would apply to children and teenagers
using wireless phones. Reducing the time of wireless phone use and increasing the