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Section 14
levels of radio frequency energy (RF) in the microwave
range while being used. They also emit very low levels
of RF when in the stand-by mode. Whereas high levels
of RF can produce health effects (by heating tissue),
exposure to low level RF that does not produce heating
effects causes no known adverse health effects. Many
studies of low level RF exposures have not found any
biological effects. Some studies have suggested that
some biological effects may occur, but such findings
have not been confirmed by additional research. In
some cases, other researchers have had difficulty in
reproducing those studies, or in determining the
reasons for inconsistent results.
What is FDA's role concerning the safety of wireless
phones?
Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of
radiation-emitting consumer products such as wireless
phones before they can be sold, as it does with new
drugs or medical devices. However, the agency has
authority to take action if wireless phones are shown to
emit radio frequency energy (RF) at a level that is
hazardous to the user. In such a case, FDA could
require the manufacturers of wireless phones to notify
users of the health hazard and to repair, replace or
recall the phones so that the hazard no longer exists.
Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA
regulatory actions, FDA has urged the wireless phone
industry to take a number of steps, including the
following:
• "Support needed research into possible biological effects of RF
of the type emitted by wireless phones;