Genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of mobile phone use on the oral epithelium: a systematic review with meta- analysis

Authors: Marcos Antônio Lima Dos Santos, Francielle Santos de Santana, Andréa Ferreira Soares, Sílvia Ferreira de Sousa, Liciane S Menezes, Wilton Mitsunari Takeshita

Year: Nov-Dec 2020

Category: Systematic Review, Meta-analysis

Journal: Gen Dent

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33136050/

Abstract

Overview

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore the potential genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of mobile phone use specifically on the oral epithelium, utilizing radiofrequency (RF) waves.

Methodology

  • Objective definition and search method via PICO model.
  • Database search across MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, Google Scholar, PROSPERO, and Cochrane Library covering publications from 2009 to 2019.
  • Focus on studies involving human subjects and cells exfoliated from the oral epithelium.
  • Exclusion of studies related to the parotid gland.

Findings

The review analyzed 464 articles initially, concluding with 6 studies of level 5 quality evidence (observational studies).

  • Two studies were included in the meta-analysis comparing micronuclei frequency between RF exposed and unexposed sides.
  • While the evidence level was low, the meta-analysis suggested no genotoxic effects from mobile phone use.
  • Observations of other nuclear abnormalities suggest potential cytotoxic effects.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to conclusively determine the association between RF-EMFs emitted by mobile phones and cytotoxic effects on the oral epithelium.

genotoxic effects cytotoxic effects mobile phone RF electromagnetic fields oral epithelium systematic review meta-analysis
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