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Fda consumer update – Samsung SCH-A530ZSVXAR User Manual

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FDA Consumer Update

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 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.

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.

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;