Abstract

Overview

Mobile phones are extensively used globally, and the potential impacts on health due to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are of significant concern. This study explores the effects of EMFs from mobile phones on the auditory system, specifically through the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR), which is a non-invasive measure of the auditory pathways and acoustic nerve functionality.

Findings

• The study was conducted with 865 participants aged 18 to 45 years, who have been using mobile phones for more than 2 years.
• Participants were divided based on daily usage, years of use, and total duration, comparing responses in both ears.
• No significant differences were found in the ABR measurements between dominant (phone-using) and non-dominant ears, aside from specific cases with high usage.
• Significant auditory changes were noted in participants using their phones for over 180 minutes per day and those with longer duration of phone use over the years.

Conclusion

While the overall results may suggest minimal risk of auditory impairment, the study highlights significant risks for high-duration mobile phone users. Such individuals show heightened ABR changes, suggesting potential early otological disturbances. Thus, cautious and limited use of mobile phones is recommended.