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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 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.
7. How can I find out how much radiofrequency energy exposure I can get
by using my wireless 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 wireless phone and is set well below levels known to have
effects. Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for
each model of phone to the FCC. The FCC website (
http://www.fda.gov
(under
“c” in the subject index, select
Cell Phones > Research
).)
gives directions for
locating the FCC identification number on your phone so you can find your
phone’s RF exposure level in the online listing.
8. What has FDA done to measure the radiofrequency energy coming from
wireless phones ?
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is developing a technical
standard for measuring the radiofrequency energy (RF) exposure from wireless
phones and other wireless handsets with the participation and leadership of FDA
scientists and engineers. The standard, “Recommended Practice for Determining
the Spatial-Peak Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in the Human Body Due to
Wireless Communications Devices: Experimental Techniques,” sets forth the first
