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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 Tablet PCs. Many factors affect this measurement,
such as the angle at which the Tablet PC is held, or which model of Tablet PC is
used.
What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects of
wireless Tablet PC 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 radio
frequency 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 Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research on
wireless Tablet PC 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 Tablet PC users. The CRADA
will also include a broad assessment of additional research needs in the context of
the latest research developments around the world.
What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radio frequency energy from
my wireless Tablet PC?
If there is a risk from these products - and at this point we do not know that there is -
it is probably very small. But if you are concerned about avoiding even potential risks,
you can take a few simple steps to minimize your exposure to radio frequency
energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives,
reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless Tablet PC will reduce RF
exposure.
"If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless Tablet PC every
day, you could place more distance between your body and the source of the
RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For
example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless Tablet PC away
from your body.
Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless Tablet PCs are harmful.
But if you are concerned about the RF exposure from these products, you can use
measures like those described above to reduce your RF exposure from wireless
Tablet PC use.
What about children using wireless Tablet PCs?
The scientific evidence does not show a danger to users of wireless Tablet PCs,
including children and teenagers. If you want to take steps to lower exposure to radio
frequency energy (RF), the measures described above would apply to children and
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