Mobile phone users and its effect of hearing in terms of distortion product otoacoustic emission
Abstract
Overview
Cellular phones, integral to modern communication, are ubiquitously used across socio-economic divisions due to their user-friendly interface and affordability. However, the convenience offered comes at the cost of potential health risks due to prolonged exposure to electromagnetic (EM) fields.
Findings
- Technology in Use: Mobile phones predominantly utilize Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), emitting pulsed high-frequency EM fields.
- Proximity to Cochlea: Cell phones are often used close to the cochlea in the ear, leading to significant absorption of EM fields and potential disturbances in mechanoelectrical transduction.
- Aim of Study: This research aimed to evaluate hearing loss associated with mobile phone usage.
Materials and Methods
This descriptive study was conducted at T.S. Misra Medical College and Hospital, involving 190 healthy volunteers ages 21 to 50, from January 2017 to June 2018, assessing hearing via distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE).
Results
The study particularly noted that right-handed mobile users showed a 21% failure rate in Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) tests, with significant effects noted at higher frequencies (6 KHz).
Conclusion
Long-term use of mobile phones may lead to damage in the Outer Hair Cells (OHCs) of the Cochlea at its basal turn, impairing hearing. Otoacoustic emissions provide an excellent means of detecting this damage.