85% of American households have smartphones, according to the 2018 U.S. Census. According to reports, they receive millions of views each day, making them possible reservoirs for environmental dangers like allergies. A recent study demonstrated higher amounts of cat and dog allergens, as well as beta-D glucans (BDG) and endotoxin, on simulated phone models at this year’s American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Louisville, KY.
According to Hana Ruran, the study’s primary author, “Cellphones showed higher and more variable amounts of BDG and endotoxin, and cat and dog allergens were discovered on the smartphones of pet owners.” “BDGs are a reliable marker to research troublesome mold since they are present in the fungal cell walls of numerous settings and surfaces and cause chronic respiratory and irritating symptoms.” “Endotoxin is a potent inflammatory agent and a sign of Gram-negative bacteria exposure.”
To conduct the test, the researchers cleaned the front surface of a phone model created by the researchers that had dimensions and a surface similar to a genuine phone.15 subjects’ simulated phones were sampled with electrostatic wipes (ESW), and the “phones” were then tested for allergens, BDG, and endotoxin levels.
Chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, tannic acid, and benzyl benzoate are the compounds employed in the cleaning mixtures; however, they are not commercially accessible in the same concentrations as those used in the study. Wipes made of isopropyl alcohol were also put to the test for cleanliness.
“The combination of benzyl benzoate and tannic acid most effectively reduced cat and dog allergens on smartphones,” says Peter Thorne, PhD, professor in the University of Iowa Department of Public Health and co-author of the study. “The combination of chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium was the most effective in reducing BDG and endotoxin.” “The study shows exposure to innately immune-reaction-inducing chemicals and inhalant allergens from a source that most individuals haven’t thought of.” “You might want to consider cleaning your smartphone more frequently if you suffer from allergies or asthma to reduce exposure to allergens and asthma triggers.”
