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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 the FDA doing to find out
more about the possible health
effects of wireless phone RF?
The 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
30
about the effects of exposure to
radiofrequency energy (RF). The
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. The FDA
and the Cellular Telecommunications
& Internet Association (CTIA) have
a formal Cooperative Research
and Development Agreement
(CRADA) to do research on wireless
phone safety. The FDA provides
the scientific oversight, obtaining
input from experts in government,
industry, and academic organizations.
CTIA-funded research is conducted
through contracts with 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.
