44
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 mobile 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 mobile 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 mobile 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 mobile 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 mobile 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 mobile phone and is set well below levels known to have effects.
Manufacturers of mobile phones must report the RF exposure level for
each model of phone to the FCC. The FCC website (http://www.fda.gov
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