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Purpose: To investigate effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emitted by cell phones on the rat kidney tissue.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-one male Albino rats were divided into 3 groups, each compris- ing 7 rats. Group 1 was exposed to a cell phone in speech mode for 8 hours/day for 20 days and their kidneys were removed. Group 2 was exposed to EMR for 20 days and then their kidneys were removed after an interval of 20 days. Cell phone used in the present study was Philips Genie 900, which has the highest specific absorption rate on the market.
Results: Light microscopic examination ofthe kidney tissues obtained from the first group ofrats revealed glomerular damage, dilatation of Bowman's capsule, formation of large spaces between the tubules, tubular damage, perivascular edema, and mfiamrnatoiy cell infiltration. The mean se- verity score was 4.64 ± 1.7 in group 1, 4.50 ± 0.8 in group 2, and 0 in group 3. While there was no significant difference between group 1 and group 2 (P > .05), the mean seventy scores of groups 1 and 2 were significantly higher than that ofthe control group (P = .001 for each).
Conclusion: Considering the damage in rat kidney tissue caused by EMR-emitting cell phones, high-risk individuals should take protective measures.
Keywords: kidney, cellular phone, electromagnetic radiation
INTRODUCTION
Advances in technology have introduced many new A devices to the benefit of mankind. Some of these devices emit electromagnetic radiation (EMR). These devices include radars, cell phones, radio and televi- sion transmitters, certain devices used in medical and indus- trial practice, high-voltage transmission lines, microwave ovens, and household electrical appliances. Cell phones that have an increasing use in our daily life also emit vary- ing degrees of EMR. Various studies have shown that radia- tion emitted by cell phones or base stations have a negative impact on human health.(1) There are publications in which cancer development, negative effects on reproduction, and development of neurological disorders associated with cell phone use have been reported.(2,3) Furthermore, there are studies suggesting elevated tissue levels of free radicals as- sociated with the cell phone use.(4)
The kidneys filtrate 20% of the body blood m eveiy rnm- ute and are thereby at high risk of being affected by...