beautypg.com

Nokia 6800 User Manual

Page 145

background image

138

Copyright © Nokia 2003

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.
Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for each model

of phone to the FCC. The FCC website (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives

directions for locating the FCC identification number on your phone so you can find

your phone’s RF exposure level in the online listing.