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Appendix 181
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 Mobile 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.