User guide

FDA CONSUMER
UPDATE
131
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 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.
SAFETY AND
WARRANTY
FDA CONSUMER
UPDATE
130
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 prior-
ity animal studies are conducted to address
important questions about the effects of expo-
sure 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 pub-
lic 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 aca-
demic organizations. CTIA-funded research is
conducted through contracts to independent
investigators.
SAFETY AND
WARRANTY
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