Effect of radiofrequency radiation on reproductive health

Indian J Med Res. 2018 Dec;148(Suppl):S92-S99. doi: 10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1056_18.

Abstract

The development of cellular phone system has greatly increased the extent and magnitude of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exposure. The RFR emitted from mobile phone and mobile phone base stations exerts thermal and non-thermal effects. The short-term and long-term exposure to RFR may have adverse effect on humans as well as animals. Most laboratory studies have indicated a direct link between exposure to RFR and adverse biological effects. Several in vitro studies have reported that RFR induces various types of cancer and DNA or chromosomal damage. On the other hand, some animal studies have not reported adverse effects of this radiation. The present review summarizes information available on the possible effects of RFR on the reproductive health.

Keywords: Biological effect; electromagnetic field; mobile phone; mobile phone base station; radiofrequency radiation; thermal and non-thermal effects.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Phone*
  • DNA Damage / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • Radio Waves / adverse effects*
  • Reproduction / radiation effects*
  • Reproductive Health