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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 radio frequency 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 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 radio
frequency 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 radio frequency 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.
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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.