FDA Consumer Update
5.
What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure from wireless phones poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies of people actually using wireless phones would provide some of
the data that are needed. 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 te interval between the time of exposure to a cancer-causing agent and the
time tumors develop - if they do - may be many years. The interpretation of epidemiological studies is hampered by difficulties in
measuring actual RF exposure during dat-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 effect 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 and 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 abroad assessment of additional research needs in the context of the latest research development 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 in consultation
with 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 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.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) give directions for locating the FCC identification number on your phone so you can find your
phone’s RF exposure level in the online listing.
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