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11. 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.
12. Which other federal agencies have responsibilities related to potential RF health effects?
Additional information on the safety of RF exposures from various sources can be obtained from the
following organizations.
FCC RF Safety Program:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
http://www.epa.gov/radiation/
Occupational Safety and Health Administration? (OSHA):
http://www.osha-slc.gov/SLTC/radiofrequencyradiation/index.html
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/emfpg.html
World health Organization (WHO):
