exists. Epidemiological studies can provide data that
is directly applicable to human populations, but ten
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 the FDA doing to find out more about
the possible health effects of wireless phone RF?
The 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 (RF) energy.
The FDA has been a leading participant in the World
Health Organization International Electro Magnetic
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.
The FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications &
Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal
Cooperative Research And Development Agreement
(CRADA) to do research on wireless phone safety.
The FDA provides the scientific oversight, obtaining
input from experts in government, industry, and
academic organizations. CTIA-funded research is
conducted through contracts with 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.
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