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base unit connected to the telephone wiring in a
house, typically operate at far lower power
levels, and thus produce RF exposures well
within the FCC's compliance limits.
Do wireless phones pose a health hazard?
The available scientific evidence does not show
that any health problems are associated with
using wireless phones. There is no proof,
however, that wireless phones are absolutely
safe. Wireless phones emit low levels of radio
frequency energy (RF) in the microwave range
while being used. They also emit very low levels
of RF when in the stand-by mode. Whereas high
levels of RF can produce health effects (by
heating tissue), exposure to low level RF that
does not produce heating effects causes no
known adverse health effects. Many studies of
low level RF exposures have not found any
biological effects. Some studies have suggested
that some biological effects may occur, but such
findings have not been confirmed by additional
research. In some cases, other researchers have
had difficulty in reproducing those studies, or in
determining the reasons for inconsistent results.
What is FDA's role concerning the safety of
wireless phones?
Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of
radiation-emitting consumer products such as
wireless phones before they can be sold, as it
does with new drugs or medical devices.
However, the agency has authority to take action
if wireless phones are shown to emit radio
frequency energy (RF) at a level that is
hazardous to the user. In such a case, FDA could
require the manufacturers of wireless phones to
notify users of the health hazard and to repair,
replace or recall the phones so that the hazard
no longer exists.
Although the existing scientific data do not
justify FDA regulatory actions, FDA has urged
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