FCC, 1999

Title: Questions and answers about biological effects and potential hazards of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields

Authors: FCC Office of Engineering & Technology

Journal: FCC BULLETIN 56 (Fourth Edition), August 1999

PMID: —

Affiliated institution: The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Cited on: FCC website

As quoted in the bulletin:

“More recently, other scientific laboratories in North America, Europe and elsewhere have reported certain biological effects after exposure of animals (“in vivo”) and animal tissue (“in vitro”) to relatively low levels of RF radiation. These reported effects have included certain changes in the immune system, neurological effects, behavioral effects, evidence for a link between microwave exposure and the action of certain drugs and compounds, a “calcium efflux” effect in brain tissue (exposed under very specific conditions), and effects on DNA.

Some studies have also examined the possibility of a link between RF and microwave exposure and cancer. Results to date have been inconclusive. While some experimental data have suggested a possible link between exposure and tumor formation in animals exposed under certain specific conditions, the results have not been independently replicated. In fact, other studies have failed to find evidence for a causal link to cancer or any related condition. Further research is underway in several laboratories to help resolve this question.

In general, while the possibility of “non-thermal” biological effects may exist, whether or not such effects might indicate a human health hazard is not presently known. Further research is needed to determine the generality of such effects and their possible relevance, if any, to human health. In the meantime, standards-setting organizations and government agencies continue to monitor the latest experimental findings to confirm their validity and determine whether alterations in safety limits are needed in order to protect human health.”