Nokia 9290 User's Guide download pdf (Page 336)

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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 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.

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Nokia 9290 User's Guide Page 336