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Nokia 7270 User Manual

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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