Effects of 900 MHz Electromagnetic Fields Emitted by Cellular Phone on Total Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels of Plasma in Syrian Hamsters ( mesocricetus auratus )

Abstract

In this study, the effects of exposure to a 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) on plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levelsof adult male Syrian hamsters were evaluated. Seventy two hamsters were used in three independent groups, 24 of which served as controls (without exposure to stress and EMF), 24 of which were exposed to a 900 MHz EMF for 10 days and 24 of which were exposed to a 900 MHz EMF for 50 days. The exposures were performed 1 h/d to a 900 MHz EMF emitted by cellular phones. Levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride in plasma samples were measured. We found significant differences for concentrations of cholesterol (p<0.05) and triglyceride (p<0.01) between experimental groups. Total cholesterol rate of the plasma in group2 with short term exposure and group3 with long term exposure to EMF (70.35 mg/dl and 65.66 mg/dl respectively) change significantly, in compared with control groups (75.33 mg/dl). Also, plasma Triglyceride, showed similar changes .Consequently, cellular phones EMF (900 MHz) may decrease plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride rates in rodents significantly, especially in long term. These alterations may be due to a reversible accumulation of either triglycerides or of their precursors in liver following acute exposure to a 900 MHz EMF

Keywords

• electromagnetic field, cholesterol, triglyceride, cellular phone, Hamster