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.
k
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:
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