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— 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 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 Engineering (IEEE) and
the National Council on Radiation Protection
and Measurement. The exposure limit takes into
consideration the body’s ability to remove heat
