A new Chinese animal study, published in November 2024 in the journal Reproductive Toxicology, highlights the harmful effects of microwaves on male reproduction. The research, conducted by a team led by Dr. Ruiyun Peng of the Beijing Institute of Radiological Medicine, provides new scientific evidence of the risks associated with wireless communication technologies.
An electromagnetic environment at risk
Microwaves are widely used in mobile communications, particularly in the 1.5 GHz (L-band) and 4.3 GHz (C-band) frequency bands. These frequencies are close to those used by 4G and 5G technologies, as the authors point out in this study:
“Yet in reality, due to the complexity of the electromagnetic environment, the human body is exposed to several microwave frequency bands. These include global mobile communication systems, widely used 4 G and 5 G cell phones, and commonly used frequency bands including L-band and C-band, [2, [3-. Therefore, it is essential to explore the biological effects of combined L- and C-band microwave exposure.”
The study shows significant impacts on reproduction
- Testicular damage: testicular tissues of exposed rats showed histological and ultrastructural alterations.
- Reduced sperm quality: significant decrease in sperm viability and motility.
- Hormonal disturbances: reduced levels of testosterone, LH, FSH and inhibin B.
- Increased oxidative stress: higher levels of lipid peroxidation and reduced activity of antioxidant enzymes.
Identical risk with single or combined exposure
Chinese researchers were able to show that individual or simultaneous exposure to both frequency bands caused comparable damage. Oxidative stress and disruption of energy metabolism appear to be the main mechanisms behind the damage to male fertility.
“Don’t put your cell phones in your pockets any more”.
For Dr Marc Arazi, President of Phonegate Alert, it’s time to act:
“This study is further proof of the risks associated with carrying cell phones in the pocket, especially for young men. It joins other recent Swiss and American studies. To minimize the risks of infertility our NGO strongly advises users to avoid carrying their cell phone in the pocket, particularly close to the reproductive organs.”
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