Cellular Phone Radiation

Cellular phones are hand-held wireless telephones that have a built-in antenna. Cellular phones are regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FCC sets safety guidelines that limit radio frequency energy on wireless phones sold in the U.S. The FDA monitors the health effects of cellular phone use. Cellular phone use has skyrocketed. There were 16 million cellular phone users in the United States in 1994. By 2001, there were more than 118 million cellular phone users.

How do cellular phones work?

Radio frequency (RF) radiation (also called radio waves) is a form of electromagnetic energy. Radio waves are created from the movement of electrical charges in antennas. They radiate away from the antenna, traveling at the speed of light. RF radiation is used for telecommunications. A cellular phone broadcasts conversations via low-power radio signals.

What are the biological effects of RF energy?

A large amount of RF energy can damage tissues by heating it and increasing body temperature. Research is being conducted to determine the health effects of low levels of RF radiation. The FCC sets safety standards for wireless phones.

What is the FDA's role regarding cellular telephone safety?

The FDA states that the available scientific evidence does not demonstrate any adverse health effects associated with the use of cellular phones. The FDA concludes that none of the studies conducted to date have shown any harmful health effects from cellular phone RF exposure. However, the FDA can take action if cellular phones emit RF energy at a level considered hazardous to the user. The FDA encourages the cellular phone manufacturers to conduct research on the possible biological effects of RF radiation emitted by wireless telephones.

What steps can be taken to reduce exposure to RF radiation from cellular telephones?

Although the FDA finds no scientific evidence showing a danger to cellular phone users, RF radiation exposure can be reduced by limiting the amount of time spent using a cellular phone. Also, using a headset or speaker and carrying the cellular phone away from your body can reduce the exposure to RF. Scientists are unsure about whether prolonged exposure to RF radiation could lead to problems. The FDA continues to monitor studies as to the short and long-term effects of exposure to cellular telephone RF radiation.

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