Significance of micronuclei in buccal smears of mobile phone users: A comparative study

Authors: Vanishree M, Manvikar V, Rudraraju A, Reddy KMP, Kumar NHP, Quadri SJM

Year: 2018 Sep-Dec

Category: Pathology

Journal: J Oral Maxillofac Pathol

Institution: Navodaya Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka

DOI: 10.4103/jomfp.JOMFP_201_18

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6306606/

Abstract

Overview

The research aimed to assess the prevalence of micronuclei in buccal cells of mobile phone users and compare it between those with high and low usage levels.

Materials and Methods

  • Participants: 60 individuals (30 male and 30 female) aged 20-28 years from Navodaya Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka.
  • Grouping: Divided into Group A (low users) and Group B (high users).
  • Procedures: Cell collection and slide preparation for observing 1000 cells per participant for micronuclei presence.

Findings

  • Significant increase in micronuclei in Group B (high mobile phone users) compared to Group A (low users).
  • Higher micronuclei count in users of CDMA phones than GSM ones.
  • Difference in micronuclei prevalence between non-headphone and headphone users, with non-headphone users showing higher rates.

Conclusion

Extended mobile phone use, even within permissible radiation levels, poses significant genotoxic risks. These risks are exacerbated when phones are used predominantly on one side of the head, likely due to increased radiation exposure and temperature. Using headphones can mitigate some genotoxic effects.

micronuclei mobile phones genotoxicity radiation health risks epidemiology
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