Table of Contents
Advertisement
2. 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.
3. 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.
221
Section 13 : Health and Safety Information
Advertisement
Table of Contents
