Assessment of Exposure and Genotoxicity of Cell Phone Radiation at Cellular Levels

Abstract

Public health concerns have been raised by quickly changing technologies and intensive use of radiofrequency (RF)-Electromagnetic force (EMF) emitting phones. Mobile phones emit radiofrequency energy (radio waves) of 30KHz-300GHz which falls in range of non-ionizing radiation. Other technologies of personal devices (cordless phones, Bluetooth, WiFi and amateur radios), occupational sources (High frequency dielectric and induction heater and high powered pulsed radars) also emit non-ionizing radiations. Majority of in vivo and in vitro studies of exposure to electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) failed to find cancerogenic effects by mobile phones and base stations. But many studies suggested tumor-promoting effects of RF-EMF (Tillman et al., 2010). Thus, IARC (WHO specialized agency) has reviewed the carcinogenic potential of radiofrequency fields, as a possible carcinogen to humans and has been included in group 2B (Baan, R., et al., 2011). This study investigates whether mobile phone radiation causes any in vitro effect on differentiated exfoliated cells from buccal mucosa using DNA specific stain. The other part of the study is planned to measure cytogenetic end point (DNA damage) by conducting in vitro analysis of short term peripheral blood culture and analysing damage by Comet assay. Also, this study addresses the increasing threat with increasing internet speed to the exposed individual, thereby showing significant increase in genomic damage as compared to control