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themselves, the RF exposures that people get from
these base stations are typically thousands of times
lower than those they can get from wireless phones.
Base stations are thus not the primary subject of the
safety questions discussed in this document.
4. 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 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