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Challenging cell phone impact on reproduction: A Review

  • Gonadal Physiology and Disease
  • Published:
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

The radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) produced by cell phones can enhance the excitability of the brain and has recently been classified as carcinogenic. The suggested use of hands-free kits lowers the exposure to the brain, but it might theoretically increase exposure to the reproductive organs. This report summarizes the potential effects of RF-EMR on reproductive potentials in both males and females.

Methods

A critical review of the literature pertaining to the impact of cell phone RF-EMR on reproduction in male and female animals and humans was performed, with a focus on gonad metabolism, apoptosis of reproductive cells, fertility status, and serum reproductive hormones.

Results

While some animal and human studies revealed alterations in reproductive physiology in both males and females, others did not report any association. The in vitro and in vivo studies to date are highly diverse, very inconsistent in conduct and, in many cases, report different primary outcomes.

Conclusion

The increasing use of cell phone warrants well-designed studies to ascertain the effect of their RF-EMR on reproduction.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women’s Health, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA

    Zaher O. Merhi

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  1. Zaher O. Merhi
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Correspondence to Zaher O. Merhi.

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Capsule

The increasing use of cell phone warrants well-designed studies to ascertain the effect of their radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on reproduction.

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Merhi, Z.O. Challenging cell phone impact on reproduction: A Review. J Assist Reprod Genet 29, 293–297 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-012-9722-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-012-9722-1

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