The effects of radiofrequency exposure on male fertility and adverse reproductive outcomes: A protocol for two systematic reviews of human observational studies with meta-analysis

Abstract

Overview

The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to consolidate evidence on the health impacts of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure, focusing on reproductive outcomes, to guide new exposure guidelines. Multiple systematic reviews by experts are in progress to evaluate this data critically.

Objectives

The study follows WHO and COSTER guidelines to review the effects of RF-EMF exposure on male fertility and pregnancy outcomes based on human observational studies. The reviews are labeled SR3A for male fertility and SR3B for pregnancy outcomes.

Data sources and Methodology

• A comprehensive search across several databases like MEDLINE, Embase, and EMF Portal.
• Inclusion of grey literature and expert consultations.
• Detailed data extraction and bias assessment with meta-analysis where applicable.

Study Eligibility Criteria

Includes adult male fertility studies and pregnancy outcomes such as preterm births and miscarriages in observational settings.

Appraisal and Synthesis

Data will be scrutinized using OHAT tools with subgroup analyses for heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses to confirm assumptions.

Conclusion

The protocols aim for methodological transparency and reduction of reviewer bias to strengthen the review process and support guideline development.