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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 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 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. The FDA and
the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA)
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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
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 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
exposure I can get by using my wireless phone?
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Migo