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energy (RF) in the microwave range while being used. They also emit very
low levels of RF when in the idle 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 radiofrequency 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;
• 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
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