Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the potential health impacts of varicocele and the proximity of cell phones stored in trouser pockets on hormonal and semen parameters.

Background

The primary aim was to assess if varicoceles and cell phones in close body contact might interactively affect reproductive health indicators.

Methods

• Retrospective analysis involving 468 men from an infertility clinic (1993-2007).
• Clinical exams to confirm varicocele presence.
• Surveys on cell phone usage and storage habits.
• Semen analysis based on WHO guidelines (1999).
• Hormonal assessments including testosterone, LH, and FSH levels.

Findings

• Significant effects of cell phone storage in trousers and varicocele were observed independently in multivariate analysis.
• Lower sperm concentrations associated with higher-grade varicocele.
• Elevated testosterone in higher-grade varicoceles suggested compensatory responses to impaired testicular function.
• Alteration in LH and sperm morphology due to cell phone storage in trousers.
• No combined adverse effect of varicocele and cell phone storage noted.

Conclusion

The study provides critical insight into the possible detrimental effects of varicocele and mobile phones on male reproductive health, underscoring the need for awareness and potentially modifying storage habits to mitigate risk.