Genotoxicity in Analog and Smart Mobile Phone Users by Assessing Micronuclei in Oral Exfoliated Cells – A Comparative Study

Abstract

The number of micronuclei in oral exfoliated buccal mucosal cells of analog (basic) and smart mobile phone users was evaluated and compared. The study population constituted 30 individuals using basic and smartphones within the age group of 45–55 years. They were divided into two groups: Group 1–15 participants using basic mobile phones and Group 2–15 participants using smart mobile phones. Exfoliated buccal mucosal cells were collected from both right and left buccal mucosa, stained with Papanicolaou stain, and evaluated microscopically for the estimation of micronuclei count. Mean micronuclei count was compared statistically between the study groups and also between the sides of frequent usage and opposite sides within the study groups. There was a significant increase in the mean micronuclei count in Group 2 compared to Group 1 and the comparison of mean micronuclei count between the side of frequent phone usage (right side) and opposite side (left side) also showed significant difference in both Groups 1 and 2. Despite technological advance and high-end features, the use of smartphones causes more genotoxicity compared to basic model or analog phones. Although this technology-dominated era mandates use of such phones as a part of routine lifestyle, it is imperative to adopt safety precautions such as use of headphones while talking, carrying a separate pouch for mobile phones to minimize the genotoxic damage.