Nokia 9290 - Manual (Page 336)

318
5.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.
6.What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects of wireless phone
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 radiofrequency 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 the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal Cooperative
Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless phone 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 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.
7. How can I find out how much radiofrequency energy exposure I can get by using my
wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
guidelines that limit radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures. FCC established these guidelines in
consultation with FDA and the other federal health and safety agencies. The FCC limit for RF
exposure from wireless telephones is set at a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6 watts per kilogram
(1.6 W/kg). The FCC limit is consistent with the safety standards developed by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurement. The exposure limit takes into consideration the body’s ability to remove heat from the
tissues that absorb energy from the wireless phone and is set well below levels known to have effects.