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134
For Your Safety
using tablets 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 tablets. Many
factors affect this measurement, such as the angle at which the tablet is held, or which
model of tablet is used.
6. What is the FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects
of tablet 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 about the effects of exposure to Radio Frequency (RF)
energy.
The FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health Organization International
Electro Magnetic 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 device 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
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