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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
radiofrequency energy (RF). 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) 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 radiofrequency 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 radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures.
The FCC/ISEDC established these guidelines in consultation with the FDA and the
other federal health and safety agencies. The FCC/ISEDC 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/ISEDC 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/ISEDC. The FCC
website ( http://www.fcc. gov/oet/rfsafety ) gives 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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