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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.
7. How can I find out how much Radio
Frequency 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 Radio
Frequency (RF) energy exposures. The FCC
established these guidelines in consultation
with the FDA and the other federal health
and safety agencies. The FCC limit for RF
exposure from wireless phones 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
For Your Safety
