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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 radio frequency 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.
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 radio frequency 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:
Health and Safety Information
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