Evaluation of neonatal outcomes according to the specific absorption rate values of phones used during pregnancy

Authors: Büyükeren M, Karanfil Yaman F.

Year: 2024 Mar 6

Category: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Journal: J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc

Institution: Konya City Hospital

DOI: 10.4274/jtgga.galenos.2023.2022-10-1

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10921072/

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the impact of cell phone usage, measured in specific absorption rate (SAR) levels, on neonatal outcomes during pregnancy.

Material and Methods

Study setting: Konya City Hospital.
Duration: September 2020 - February 2021.
Data recorded: Gestational ages, birth weight, length, head circumference, sex, APGAR scores, resuscitation need, delivery type, phone model, daily phone usage time.
Analysis method: Receiver operating characteristic curve to assess SAR values and small for gestational age (SGA) births.

Findings

A total of 1495 pregnant women were analyzed.

High SAR levels were linked with a higher rate of SGA births, with significant statistical findings: cut-off SAR value 1.23 W/kg (sensitivity 69.3%, specificity 73.0%).
No significant correlation between daily phone usage time and SGA birth rate.
Non-significant differences in SAR values and phone usage time were observed between symmetrical and asymmetrical SGA groups, and between preterm and term deliveries.

Conclusion

Increased SAR values from cell phones during pregnancy may lead to a higher incidence of SGA babies, indicating a potential risk factor requiring further research.

← Back to Stats