Nokia 2285 User Manual page 99

5. What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure from wireless phones
poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies of people actually using wireless
phones would provide some of the data that are needed. Lifetime animal exposure studies could
be completed in a few years. However, very large numbers of animals would be needed to provide
reliable proof of a cancer promoting effect if one exists. Epidemiological studies can provide data
that is directly applicable to human populations, but 10 or more years follow-up may be needed
to provide answers about some health effects, such as cancer. This is because the interval between
the time of exposure to a cancer-causing agent and the time 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 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. The FCC website (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives directions for locating the
FCC identification number on your phone so you can find your phone's RF exposure level in the
online listing.
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