User's Manual

110
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 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
effects of exposure to radiofrequency 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 & 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 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. FCC established these guidelines in
consultation with 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