Mobile Phone Use Linked to Decreased Sperm Concentration, According to University of Geneva Study
A comprehensive study conducted the University of Geneva (UNIGE) in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) has found that frequent mobile phone use may have implications on semen quality.
The research, which analyzed data from 2,886 Swiss men aged 18 to 22 over a period of 2005 to 2018, revealed a connection between high mobile phone usage and reduced sperm concentration. Specifically, individuals who used their phones more than 20 times a day showed a 21% decrease in sperm concentration compared to those who used their phones less frequently.
The study was co-directed Serge Nef, a full professor in the Department of Genetic Medicine and Development at UNIGE. Participants provided detailed information about their lifestyle habits, general health, and frequency of mobile phone usage. The findings showed that individuals who used their phones infrequently had a notably higher median sperm concentration compared to frequent users.
It was observed that the decline in sperm concentration was more evident during the earlier study period (2005-2007) and decreased over time, aligning with the shift from 2G to 3G and subsequently from 3G to 4G technologies, which resulted in reduced phone transmitting power.
Rita Rahban, a senior researcher and teaching assistant in the Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, highlighted that previous studies in this domain had limitations due to small sample sizes and a lack of comprehensive lifestyle information. This new research provides significant insights into the potential impact of mobile phone use on semen quality. However, it is important to note that the study relied on self-reported data, which poses a potential limitation.
To address this limitation, a new study will be conducted this year to directly measure electromagnetic wave exposure and assess its impact on male reproductive health. Participants will use a dedicated application to collect accurate data, aiming to better understand the relationship between mobile phone use and semen quality. The study also aims to explore the underlying mechanisms at play, such as the direct or indirect effects of mobile phone microwaves, their potential to elevate testes temperature, and their impact on hormonal regulation of sperm production.
The team is currently seeking participants for this study, which aims to expand our understanding of the potential connection between frequent mobile phone use and semen quality. The implications of this research are significant, indicating the need for further investigation.
The study’s findings have been published in the journal Fertility and Sterility.
Source: TechTimes