Audiovox Thero PDAs & Smartphones User Manual


 
FDA Consumer Update
151
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 bodys ability to
remove heat from the tissues that absorb energy from the wireless phone and is set well below
levels known to have effects.