Researchers link lower sperm quality to frequent mobile phone use

There is an association between frequent mobile phone use and lower sperm concentration. [iStockphoto]

Researchers suggest that this trend may have a link to the transition from 2G to 3G and then to 4G mobile networks, which resulted in reduced transmitting power of phones.

"Previous studies evaluating the relationship between the use of mobile phones and semen quality were performed on a relatively small number of individuals, rarely considering lifestyle information, and have been subject to selection bias, as they were recruited in fertility clinics. This has led to inconclusive results," says study co-author Rita Rahban, senior researcher and teaching assistant in the Department of Genetic Medicine and Development in the Faculty of Medicine at the UNIGE and at the Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology, in a university release.

The study also explored the positioning of mobile phones, such as carrying them in trouser pockets, but did not find a clear association with lower semen parameters. Researchers noted, though, that the number of participants who did not carry their phones close to their bodies was too small to draw robust conclusions on this specific aspect.

One limitation of the study was that it relied on self-reported data, which may not always accurately reflect actual mobile phone usage. To address this limitation, a new study funded by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is set to launch in 2023.

It aims to directly measure exposure to electromagnetic waves and different types of mobile phone usage (calls, web browsing, sending messages) to assess their impact on male reproductive health and fertility potential.

Researchers also intend to investigate further the mechanisms behind these observations, including whether the microwaves emitted by mobile phones have a direct or indirect effect, whether they cause a significant increase in testicular temperature, and whether they influence the hormonal regulation of sperm production.

The study is published in the journal Fertility & Sterility. Previous studies have also found that cell phone radiation causes sharp spikes in Alzheimer's disease.