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Consumer Information on Wireless Phones
decreases rapidly with increasing distance from the
source. The so-called "cordless phones," which have a
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
Section 14: Health and Safety Information
177
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