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11. 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.
12. Which other federal agencies have responsibilities related to potential
RF health effects?
Additional information on the safety of RF exposures from various sources
can be obtained from the following organizations.
FCC RF Safety Program:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
http://www.epa.gov/radiation/
Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA):
http://www.osha-slc.gov/SLTC/radiofrequencyradiation/index.html
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics.emf
Health and Safety Information
166
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