Health and Safety Information
188
are conducted to address important questions about the effects of
exposure to radio frequency 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.
5. What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radio frequency
energy from my wireless phone?
If there is a risk from these products—and at this point we do not know that
there is—it is probably very small. But if you are concerned about avoiding
even potential risks, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your
exposure to radio frequency energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how
much exposure a person receives, reducing the amount of time spent using
a wireless phone will reduce RF exposure.
If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every day,
you could place more distance between your body and the source of the
RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For
example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless phone away from
your body or use a wireless phone connected to a remote antenna
