Nokia 6670 User Manual download pdf (Page 141)

Consumer Update on Wireless Phones

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

1. 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 radiofrequency

energy (RF) in the microwave range while being used. They also emit very low

levels of RF when in the 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.

2. 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 radiofrequency 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;

• Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to the user

that is not necessary for device function; and

• Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones with the best possible

information on possible effects of wireless phone use on human health.

FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the federal agencies that have

responsibility for different aspects of RF safety to ensure coordinated efforts at

the federal level. The following agencies belong to this working group:

• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

• Environmental Protection Agency

• Federal Communications Commission

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration

• National Telecommunications and Information Administration

The National Institutes of Health participates in some interagency working

group activities, as well.

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Nokia 6670 User Manual Page 141