Consumer Update On Wireless Phones - Nokia N-GAGE QD User Manual

Consumer Update on Wireless Phones

1. 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.
2. 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 the wireless
phone industry to take a number of steps, including the following:
• Support needed research into possible biological effects of RF of the type emitted by wireless
phones;
• Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to the user that is not necessary
for device function; and
• Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones with the best possible information on possible
effects of wireless phone use on human health.
FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the federal agencies that have responsibility for
different aspects of RF safety to ensure coordinated efforts at the federal level. The following agencies
belong to this working group:
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Federal Communications Commission
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
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