Abstract

Overview

Mobile phones emit radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic waves (EMWs), a low-level RF that can be absorbed by the human body and exert potential adverse effects on the brain, heart, endocrine system, and reproductive function. This systematic review and updated meta-analysis aim to explore these impacts, focusing specifically on human sperm quality in light of novel findings since 2012.

Methods

The study adheres to PRISMA guidelines assessing sperm quality through motility, viability, and concentration—important clinical parameters for fertility assessment.

Findings

• A total of 18 studies with 4280 samples were evaluated.
• Exposure to mobile phones is associated with reduced sperm motility, viability, and concentration.
• The decline in sperm quality persists despite the duration of mobile phone usage increasing.
• Both experimental in vitro and observational in vivo studies consistently show detrimental effects.

Conclusion

Mobile phone usage conclusively decreases sperm quality, with a more significant impact seen in real-world, in vivo settings. Notably, high usage groups experience further reductions in sperm parameters, emphasizing the need for considering prolonged exposure as a serious risk factor for reproductive health. Future studies should look into EMWs from newer mobile devices in our digital age.