Effects of the Universal Mobile Telecommunication System on Hearing in Rats

Aim: The aim of the study was to asses the potential effects of universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS) waves on inner ear and compare with those of the well-known ototoxic agent amikacin. Material and Method: The study examined 24 healthy female Wistar albino rats in three groups of eight. The UMTS group was exposed to UMTS waves for 30 minutes per day for 90 days; the Amikacin group was given 200 mg/kg amikacin intramuscularly for 15 days; and the control group was not exposed to magnetic fields and was not given amikacin for 90 days. The hearing status of the rats were evaluated using distortion product otoacoustic emission before and after exposure. Results: Comparing the results before and after exposure to UMTS waves, there was no significant difference in the distortion product gram in the UMTS and control groups, whereas measurements showed significant deterioration in the Amikacin group after exposure. Discussion: Exposure to UMTS waves for 30 min per day for 90 days had no statistically significant effect on hearing in rats.