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Health and Safety Information 98
primary brain cancer, glioma, meningioma, or acoustic neuroma,
tumors of the brain or salivary gland, leukemia, or other cancers.
None of the studies demonstrated the existence of any harmful
health effects from wireless devices RF exposures. However,
none of the studies can answer questions about long-term
exposures, since the average period of device use in these
studies was around three years.
What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure
from wireless devices poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies
of people actually using wireless devices 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
ten 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 devices.
Many factors affect this measurement, such as the angle at
which the device is held, or which model of device is used.
What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible
health effects of wireless device 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 radio frequency
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 Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association
(CTIA) have a formal Cooperative Research and Development
Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless device 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 device users. The
CRADA will also include a broad assessment of additional
SWD-M100.book Page 98 Tuesday, July 21, 2009 1:42 PM