 Technologies like cellular phones and wireless devices are ubiquitous in our daily lives, serving as essential tools for communication, entertainment, and productivity. In recent years, the proliferation of these wireless internet technologies has led to the mainstream become more aware of these devices emitting significant amounts of electromagnetic radiation (EMR)/electromagnetic frequencies (EMF). These devices, which operate as radio devices transmitting and receiving radio EMF within a large band of radio frequencies (RF), come with significant health concerns, particularly in the realm of reproductive health. The radiation emitted by mobile phones can have both thermal and non-thermal impacts on biological materials, with potential long-term effects on cellular functions and the hormonal balance in the human body. Emerging research points to a troubling link between mobile phone usage and male infertility, a condition that already affects nearly half of the 15% of couples worldwide struggling with reproductive issues. Frequency emitting devicesFor years the cell phone companies have assured people that cell phones are perfectly safe. Currently there are over 700 million cell phone users in the world. Analog phones operate at 450–900 MHz, digital phones (Global System for Mobile Communications [GSM]) at 850–1900 MHz, and third-generation phones at approximately 2000 MHz. The radiation emitted by Wi-Fi and all generations of mobile phones is classified as non-ionizing radiation, which falls within the microwave range (3–300 GHz).
5G routers and modems, operating on higher frequencies, emit more powerful electromagnetic fields, potentially amplifying the risks. The introduction of 5G technology, which involves more frequent data transmissions at higher power levels, has raised concerns about whether this could intensify the reproductive risks posed by EMF radiation. Keep in mind, the EMFs emitted by cell phones are a form of microwave energy. Specifically, cell phones emit RF radiation, which falls within the microwave portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Microwaves, including the frequencies used by cell phones, are non-ionizing radiation, meaning they don't carry enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules. Cell phones typically operate at frequencies between 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz, which are in the lower part of the microwave frequency range. This type of radiation is also used in other wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. While the power levels of cell phones are much lower than those of devices like microwave ovens, the concern over potential health effects has led to ongoing research on the long-term exposure to RF radiation emitted by mobile devices.   Specific Absorption RateThe intensity of RF-EMR is measured using a standardized unit called Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which quantifies how much energy the body absorbs during exposure. According to the United States Federal Communications Commission, SAR limit should not exceed 1.6 W/kg as averaged over one gram of tissue. Additionally, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection recommends a limit of 2 W/kg for head and trunk exposure over 10 grams of tissue. SAR is distributed in a non-uniform way in the human body and is typically highest in the body part closest to the device. In other words, EMF exposure is highest in body parts closest to mobile devices, and when mobile phones are placed less than 15 cm from the testes, they can reach harmful levels, potentially affecting testicular function, and downstream effects of altered testicular function, AKA endocrine/hormone function. Harmful effects of EMFs to HumansAs mentioned, the biological effects of RF-EMR emitted from wireless devices can be categorized as thermal and non-thermal.
The germ cell cycle refers to the process that our reproductive cells (sperm in males and eggs in females) go through in order to develop and be ready for fertilization. These cells are very sensitive to their environment because they play a crucial role in reproduction and passing on our DNA to the next generation. Impact on Hormones Among the reproductive parameters studied, less attention has been paid to the effects of wireless devices on male reproductive hormones. The intricate interaction of hormones involved in the hypothalamic–pituitary–testes axis, particularly gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and estrogen, are essential for male reproductive functions. These hormones have been documented to be affected by RF-EMR exposure, which may result in male reproductive dysfunction and infertility depending on various factors. Impact on Testes The human testis is particularly sensitive to both radiation and heat. These factors play a crucial role in reproductive health, and the introduction of EMR from mobile devices has raised significant concerns. Studies have demonstrated that the testis, being a delicate organ, can suffer damage from prolonged exposure to radiation, ultimately impairing sperm production. RF-EMR have been observed to cause histological aberrations (dysfunctional tissue changes) in the testes, testicular tissue atrophy, decreased testosterone levels, and a subsequent deterioration in sperm quality.  Impact on Semen Studies examining the association between mobile phone use and semen parameters have yielded significant results. Men who stored mobile phones in their trouser pockets exhibited a decrease in the percentage of normal sperm morphology and luteinizing hormone levels. Additionally, exposure to mobile phone EMR was associated with:
The frequency and duration of mobile phone use have been linked to declines in semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count, indicating a detrimental effect on sperm quality and male fertility. Notably, carrying cell phones in hip pockets and on belts has been associated with lower sperm motility compared to other storage methods. Moreover, prolonged exposure to EMF from mobile phones and routers has been linked to a higher rate of childlessness among certain professions, such as military personnel in the Royal Norwegian Navy. These findings suggest that frequent exposure to mobile phone radiation may impair reproductive health over time. Numerous studies have shown that radiation emitted by Wi-Fi and 5G routers, especially when used for prolonged periods, can negatively affect sperm quality, including sperm count, motility, and DNA integrity. A laboratory study found that exposing sperm samples to a laptop connected to Wi-Fi for just four hours significantly reduced sperm motility and increased DNA fragmentation. This indicates that not only direct phone use but also proximity to routers and modems could affect sperm health. In human studies, semen analysis in the four cell phone user groups showed a decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology with the increase in daily use of cell phone - in a dose dependent manner (the more EMF radiation exposure, the greater the effects to semen). Other researchers suggested in their study on mice that Leydig cells are among the most susceptible cells to EMW, and injury to Leydig cells may affect spermatogenesis. Additionally, mobile phone EMR induced genotoxic effects on epididymal spermatozoa, which is critical for fertility.  Beyond reproductive damage, innumerable reports of potential adverse effects of radiofrequency EMF on brain, heart, endocrine system, and DNA of humans and animals are widely reported in the literature. Electromagnetic waves alter brain electroencephalographic activity and cause:
How Mobile Phone Radiation Affects Biological Systems: Known mechanisms Studies evaluating the effects of EMR from mobile phones on male fertility have yielded noteworthy results. Mobile phones emit EMF that alter biological functions by depositing energy at the molecular level. These changes are believed to target the body at the sub-cellular level, influencing key components such as hormones and cellular receptors. Among the various systems that EMF radiation impacts, the reproductive system appears to be one of the most vulnerable. The radiation can disrupt the normal polarization of cellular membranes, impairing processes such as hormone synthesis and secretion. In males, the hormone testosterone plays a critical role in spermatogenesis—the production of sperm—and disruptions to this process can result in infertility. Both human and animal studies have reported reduced sperm motility, structural abnormalities, and increased oxidative stress in spermatozoa exposed to EMR. Scrotal hyperthermia and elevated oxidative stress are identified as key mechanisms through which EMR affects male fertility, with the duration of mobile phone use correlating with the severity of these effects. The effects of EMF radiation on male fertility have been studied in animal models, with significant findings. Wistar albino rats exposed to mobile phone radiation for 30-60 minutes experienced a marked decline in serum testosterone levels, from 5.10 ng/mL to 3.10 ng/mL, compared to the control group, which maintained a level of 6.34 ng/mL. These changes in testosterone levels can directly impair spermatogenesis, leading to decreased sperm count, motility, and viability. In short, regular exposure to mobile phone radiation may significantly affect male reproductive health by disrupting critical hormonal and cellular processes.  One of the mechanisms through which EMF radiation harms reproductive tissues is through the generation of oxidative stress via changes in intracellular calcium. EMF exposure from mobile phones and Wi-Fi devices has been shown to increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by augmenting the action of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide oxidase in human cell membranes. This elevated ROS levels can lead to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and disruptions to testicular function, potentially compromising male fertility. Studies suggest that EMF exposure causes electron leakage from the mitochondria, leading to the production of free radicals.  These free radicals can damage sperm cells by affecting their membrane structure and DNA integrity. Oxidative stress, induced by prolonged mobile phone use, may also disturb free radical metabolism in reproductive tissues, leading to changes in reproductive parameters like sperm morphology and function. Research has further demonstrated that EMF radiation may affect testosterone levels at various points in the hormonal feedback cycle, including through the anterior pituitary gland and serum protein binding. These disruptions in hormonal feedback can exacerbate the negative impact on sperm quality and overall male fertility. Hormonal ChangesResearch indicates that prolonged RF-EMR exposure, such as frequent use of mobile phones over several years, can lower testosterone levels in men. Testosterone is a critical hormone for sperm production and general male health. Over time, men using mobile phones emitting 950 MHz RF-EMR experienced a gradual reduction in testosterone levels. Additionally, RF-EMR negatively affects the anterior pituitary gland, which regulates several hormones, including cortisol, thyroid hormones, and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). This interference with hormonal balance may result in decreased reproductive function. Some studies have suggested that mobile phone radiation could lead to Leydig cell hyperplasia, a condition where these testicular cells overgrow and produce elevated testosterone levels. However, this increase is misleading, as reproductive functions, such as sperm quality, are still impaired despite the rise in testosterone. Decreased sperm count, motility, and quality have been consistently linked to mobile phone use, validating the harmful impact of mobile phone radiation on male fertility. Animal Studies on RF-EMR Exposure Animal studies have further validated these concerns. Exposure to RF-EMR, particularly at 900 MHz, has been shown to increase the levels of reproductive hormones such as FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinizing Hormone), and prolactin in animals. While these hormones are typically involved in regulating male reproductive functions, prolonged exposure to RF-EMR disrupts this balance. For example, increased LH levels in animals exposed to mobile phone radiation were accompanied by damage to Leydig cells via changes in protein kinase C, which led to reduced testosterone production. Additionally, RF-EMR exposure increases oxidative stress in Leydig cells, leading to cellular damage and apoptosis (cell death). This oxidative stress, combined with thermal effects from radiation, can impair the function of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which are essential for regulating reproductive hormones like LH and FSH. When these hormones are out of balance, the entire reproductive system can be negatively impacted. Human Studies on RF-EMR Exposure In studies of men, the group exposed to EMFs had a considerable decrease in LH levels. Additionally, RF-EMR appears to have a negative relationship with the anterior pituitary gland and the downstream effects of hormones released via the actions of the pituitary. Studies of men with long-term use of 950 MHz mobile phones (6 years) have revealed reduced testosterone levels, which is dependent on time, likely due to damage to Leydig cells and insufficient LH, as LH stimulates the secretion of testosterone by testicular Leydig cells. These hormonal regulations by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary are essential for male reproductive functions. RF-EMR emitted from mobile phones can cause thermal effects as manifested by the elevation of temperature and EMF strength value on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland after mobile phone exposure. The penetration of RF-EMR on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland is deeper in lower frequency bands (700 and 900 MHz).  Long-Term Concerns and Future GenerationsThe potential consequences of long-term mobile phone radiation exposure extend beyond the individual. In their study on mice, some researchers suggest that radiofrequency EMF might have a genotoxic effect (toxic to genes) on epididymal spermatozoa. As radiation affects hormone synthesis and cellular receptors, these changes can have long-lasting implications, possibly influencing future generations. Researchers argue that the reproductive system may be particularly vulnerable to EMF radiation, and chronic exposure could have enduring consequences on fertility rates globally. The rising use of mobile phones and other EMF-emitting devices further intensifies the need for increased awareness of these risks. Mitigating the RisksWhile mobile phones are an integral part of modern life, there are ways to mitigate the risks associated with EMF radiation. Phone Use, Screen Time, & Talking Time While low-intensity RF-EMF exposure may not significantly affect sperm quality, prolonged or frequent mobile phone use has adverse effects on male reproductive health. It is essential to minimize exposure to EMR by limiting the duration of phone calls and internet browsing on mobile devices. The amount of time spent using a mobile phone also plays a significant role in fertility outcomes (high duration of phone time is associated with low volume of semen, sperm concentration and total sperm count). Researchers discovered that talking on a mobile phone for more than an hour per day was associated with a higher percentage of abnormal sperm concentration compared to those who spoke for less than an hour (60.9% vs. 35.7%, P < 0.04). Phone Use While Charging Even more concerning, using a phone while it is charging, when radiation levels are higher due to an external power source, led to worse sperm quality compared to when the phone was used unplugged. While charging a mobile phone, the external power source emits energy and owing to the unceasing supply of energy from the external source, the device transmits at a higher power, without the need for energy saving, which is different when compared to the usual talking mode. Proximity of Wireless Devices Some recommended practices include limiting the proximity of mobile phone use, keeping the phone away from the body, especially near reproductive organs, and using hands-free devices to reduce direct exposure. The location where men keep their phones while not in use is also important. Nearly 87.6% of study participants reported keeping their phones less than 50 cm from their groin (e.g., in a pocket or on a belt), a practice that may expose their reproductive organs to higher levels of radiation. The overall exposure to radiation from frequent mobile phone use was linked to reduced sperm motility, as indicated by a meta-analysis of 1492 samples. Airplane Mode Additionally, placing phones in airplane mode when not in use and avoiding carrying phones in pockets can help lower radiation exposure. Supplements Studies suggest that antioxidant vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin E, as well as other supplements such as glutathione, have been observed to provide some protection against the adverse effects of EMF on the testis. These supplements could help mitigate the oxidative stress caused by radiation, preserving sperm quality and potentially safeguarding fertility. EMF Harmonizing Devices For those seeking advanced protection, innovative technologies like Aires Tech offer a solution. Aires Tech devices create a coherent field in the form of a fractal matrix around biological objects. This matrix, generated by a lattice resonator formed from ringed topological lines, serves as a coherent transducer. In simpler terms, it acts as a shield against the negative influence of techogenic electromagnetic radiation across a wide range of frequencies.  Promoting Awareness and Further ResearchMobile phones emit electromagnetic fields that, while useful for communication, may come at the cost of reproductive health, particularly for men. Given the growing prevalence of mobile phone use and the compelling evidence linking its use to male infertility, it is imperative to raise awareness about these issues. Prolonged exposure to electromagnetic radiation, particularly through mobile phones and Wi-Fi-enabled devices, has been shown to negatively impact sperm quality, count, motility, and viability. Research has also demonstrated the potential for EMF radiation to negatively impact testosterone levels, and overall fertility. While mobile phones are seemingly indispensable in modern life, it’s important to be mindful of their potential risks, especially regarding reproductive health. As mobile phone use continues to increase, the need for further investigation into its health effects is crucial. Further research is needed to elucidate the long-term effects of EMR exposure on male reproductive health and to develop strategies for mitigating potential risks, particularly concerning the latest 5G technology. Studies exploring the thermal and nonthermal effects of 5G smartphones on cell membrane structures and organ system function are warranted to fully understand the potential risks associated with EMR exposure. Until more conclusive evidence is available, minimizing exposure to EMF radiation is a sensible precaution for preserving reproductive health. The accumulating evidence underscores the importance of considering the impact of mobile phone use on health. By raising awareness of these findings and promoting responsible mobile phone usage, individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks and safeguard reproductive health. As research in this field continues to evolve, ongoing investigations into the effects of EMR exposure on male fertility will be critical for informing public health guidelines and ensuring the well-being of future generations. referencesMeo, Sultan, et al. Effects of Mobile Phone Radiation on Serum Testosterone in Wistar Albino Rats. 2010.
Maluin, Sofwatul Mokhtarah, et al. “Effect of Radiation Emitted by Wireless Devices on Male Reproductive Hormones: A Systematic Review.” Frontiers in Physiology, vol. 12, 24 Sept. 2021, p. 732420, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8497974/, https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2021.732420. Accessed 22 Oct. 2021. Okechukwu, Chidiebere Emmanuel. “Does the Use of Mobile Phone Affect Male Fertility? A Mini-Review.” Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, vol. 13, no. 3, 2020, p. 174, https://doi.org/10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_126_19. Agarwal, Ashok, et al. “Effect of Cell Phone Usage on Semen Analysis in Men Attending Infertility Clinic: An Observational Study.” Fertility and Sterility, vol. 89, no. 1, Jan. 2008, pp. 124–128, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.01.166.
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Olle Johansson, associate professor at the Karolinska Institute (retired Nov 2017, still active), Department of Neuroscience, and head of The Experimental Dermatology Unit, has a long background in the neurosciences and has coauthored – together with his supervisor professor Tomas Hökfelt and many others, including Nobel Laureates – up to the presentation of his doctoral thesis 143 original papers, reviews, book chapters and conference abstracts, a publication record hard to beat! His doctoral thesis at the Karolinska Institute was entitled ”Peptide Neurons in the Central and Peripheral Nervous System. Light and Electron Microscopic Studies”.
Olle Johansson has participated in more than 300 congresses, symposia and meetings as an invited speaker, and with free contributions and as an invited ’observer’ at an additional 200. His studies have been widely recognized in the public media, including newspapers, radio and TV as well as on the Internet, both nationally as well as internationally, and he is a regular interview guest in magazines, journals, tabloids and newspapers, as well as in radio shows, TV programmes and in the Internet-based news blogs and websites. Olle Johansson is a world-leading authority in the field of EMF radiation and health effects. Among many achievements he coined the term ”screen dermatitis” which later on was developed into the functional impairment electrohypersensitivity which recognition mainly is due to his work. He has also been a guest professor as well as adjunct professor in basic and clinical neuroscience at the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. His research group continues to investigate adverse health effects of modern, man-made, artificial electromagnetic fields as well as the functional impairment electrohypersensitivity. The very early introduction of the clinical term “screen dermatitis” was done to explain the cutaneous damages that developed in the late 1970s when office workers, first mostly women, began to be placed in front of computer monitors. Olle Johansson then called for action along lines of occupational medicine, biophysics and biochemistry, as well as neuroscience and experimental dermatology. The working hypothesis early became that persons with the impairment electrohypersensitivity react in a cellularly correct way to the electromagnetic radiation, maybe in concert with chemical emissions such as plastic components, flame retardants, etc., in a highly specific way and with a completely correct avoidance reaction — just as you would do if you had been exposed to e.g. sun rays, X-rays, radioactivity or chemical odors. Nowadays, electrohypersensitivity (EHS) is in Sweden an officially fully recognized functional impairment (i.e., it is not regarded as a disease). Survey studies show that somewhere between 230,000-290,000 Swedish men and women—out of a population of 10,000,000—report a variety of symtoms when being in contact with electromagnetic field sources. To this, one should also add all the current issues regarding the bigger picture: the health effects of electromagnetic fields on the general population, including memory, concentration and learning difficulties, neurological damage and cancer, immune system impairments, fertility issues, as well as impacts on other animals, plants and bacteria. Olle Johansson and his collaborators have, in addition, worked in great depth in areas such as skin diseases, cancer, child delivery, female urine incontinence, oral mucosa diseases, brain and spinal cord morphology, synaptology and chemical transmission, peripheral nervous system-related issues, cardiac function, skeletal muscle function and disease, and connective tissue ripening phenomena. He has published more than 600 original articles, reviews, book chapters and conference reports within the fields of basic and applied neuroscience, dermatoscience, epidemiology, and biophysiology. He has received a number of awards, including the Nokia Consumer Electronics Award, The Grand Environment Award of the Cancer and Allergy Foundation, the SIF Award, Tandvårdsskadeförbundets Pris, and many more. Olle Johansson is – or has been – a member of, i.a., The European Neuroscience Association (ENA), The European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR), IBAS Users of Scandinavia (IBUS), The International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), The International Society for Stereology (ISS), The New York Academy of Sciences, The Royal Microscopical Society (RMS), Scandinavian Society for Electron Microscopy (SCANDEM), The Skin Pharmacology Society (SPS), Society for Neuroscience, Svenska Fysiologföreningen, Svenska Intressegruppen för Grafisk Databehandling (SIGRAD), Svenska Läkaresällskapet, and the Svenska Sällskapet för Automatiserad Bildanalys (SSAB). Olle Johansson has on-going international scientific collaborations with, i.a., Japan, Belgium, Australia, Brasil, India, Uruguay, Serbia, Germany and USA. It is widely recognized that radiation exposures such as X-rays and gamma radiation can increase the risk of cancer in humans and animals. These types of radiation are referred to as ionizing radiation (Ionization energy is defined as the minimum amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule in the gaseous state). This is different from nonionizing radiation, which includes ultraviolet (UV), visible light, extremely low frequency radiation (ELF), and radiofrequency or microwave (RF) radiation. Conventionally, researchers believed that nonionizing radiation is not harmful or carcinogenic, despite evidence surfacing regarding the relationship between UV radiation and skin cancer. Research evaluating the exposure to RF radiation was conducted primarily by military agencies. Due to the advent and use of cellular telephone systems, which involve widespread public exposures, reevaluation of exposure risk has become urgent. Four types of physiological effects has been observed by researched in multiple studies:
These findings suggest that exposure to RF radiation, including from devices such as microwave ovens, are potentially carcinogenic and have other health effects. An important point to consider is that low dose radiation exposure over time has damaging effects, rather than one large exposure to radiation. Alternatives to Microwaves Rather than using a microwave, consider using a stove or convection oven. These methods take a bit more time, but it is well worth it! Consider using headphones to talk on cell phones rather than placing the device directly to your head. If possible, request to avoid airport scanners by opting for a pat-down. Lastly, try to reduce overall radiation exposure over time. References Goldsmith, J. (1997). Epidemiologic Evidence Relevant to Radar (Microwave) Effects. Environmental Health Perspectives, 105, 1579. https://doi.org/10.2307/3433674
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