UTStarcom XV6600 User Manual page 173

XV6600 User Manual 165
However, none of the studies can answer questions about long-term exposures,
since the average period of phone use in these studies was around three years.
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 is 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 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.
What is the FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects of wireless phone RF?
The 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).
The 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.
The FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless
phone safety. The 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 phone 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
phone?
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 phone will reduce RF exposure.