Effect of radiofrequency electromagnetic waves of mobile phone stations on male fertility

Arch Ital Urol Androl. 2024 Oct 2;96(3):12595. doi: 10.4081/aiua.2024.12595.

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the effect of electromagnetic waves of mobile phone stations on several sperm parameters and the male reproductive system.

Methods: This observational study was performed on 216 subjects, aged 18-60 years. Two equal groups of subjects were assigned to group A (study group) if they were living close to cell phone tower stations for at least 6 months and group B (control group) formed from individuals living 100 meters away from cell phone tower stations. Every subject underwent a comprehensive history taking, a clinical assessment, and laboratory testing.

Results: Regarding morphology index in the studied groups, the exposed group exhibited a trend of reduced percentage of normal morphology compared to the non-exposed group, with no statistical difference between the two groups. Regarding the total sperm motility (A+B+C) and progressive sperm motility (A+B) in the studied groups, the exposed group showed a trend of decreased total sperm motility and of progressive sperm motility in contrast to the non-exposed group, with no statistical difference between the two groups.

Conclusions: Personal wrong lifestyles with exposure to electromagnetic waves have shown a trend towards a reduced percentage of normal morphology and reduced motility although nonstatistically significant compared with non-exposed populations.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cell Phone*
  • Electromagnetic Radiation
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Fertility / radiation effects
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / etiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radio Waves* / adverse effects
  • Sperm Motility* / radiation effects
  • Spermatozoa / radiation effects
  • Young Adult