Effects of 5G frequencies on sperm parameters, mating success, and offspring outcomes in rats

Abstract

Background and objectives The advancement of 5G technology is highly anticipated due to its faster data transmission, yet its potential impact on male fertility remains unclear. This study evaluated the effects of 5G frequencies at 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz on sperm parameters, mating success, and offspring outcomes. Methods A total of 18 male Sprague Dawley rats (n=18) were divided into three groups: a Control group, a 3.5 GHz group, and a 24 GHz group (n=6). The Control group was sham-exposed. In contrast, the 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz groups were exposed to their respective frequencies for 7 h daily over 60 d. Following 46 d of exposure, a 1:1 mating procedure was conducted. Female rats (n=18) were monitored until gestation d 28 to assess pregnancy rates and birth metrics. Later, the male rats were sacrificed, and sperm quality was evaluated. Results Both exposed groups exhibited a significant decrease in sperm concentration and motility (P<0.001) compared to the Control group. The 24 GHz group had a lower pregnancy rate, whereas the 3.5 GHz group showed a lower live birth rate. Congenital anomalies were observed in the 3.5 GHz group, whereas the 24 GHz group presented significantly lower birth weights (P<0.001). Interpretation and conclusions The findings suggest prolonged exposure to 5G frequencies may have a negative impact on male fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and the birth metrics.

AI evidence extraction

Main findings

Compared with sham exposure, both 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz exposure significantly reduced sperm concentration and motility. The 24 GHz group had a lower pregnancy rate and lower offspring birth weights, while the 3.5 GHz group had a lower live birth rate and congenital anomalies.

Outcomes measured

• Sperm concentration
• Sperm motility
• Pregnancy rate
• Live birth rate
• Congenital anomalies
• Birth weight

Limitations

• Animal study, limiting direct applicability to humans
• Only six exposed males per group
• The abstract does not report SAR, field strength, or other exposure dosimetry

Suggested hubs

• 5g-policy (0.75)
  The study directly evaluates biological and reproductive outcomes associated with two frequencies used or anticipated for 5G technology.

{
    "study_type": "animal",
    "exposure": {
        "band": "RF/microwave (5G; 3.5 and 24 GHz)",
        "source": null,
        "frequency_mhz": null,
        "sar_wkg": null,
        "duration": "7 hours daily for 60 days"
    },
    "population": "Male Sprague Dawley rats assigned to sham, 3.5 GHz, or 24 GHz exposure groups, with female rats used for mating and pregnancy assessment",
    "sample_size": 36,
    "outcomes": [
        "Sperm concentration",
        "Sperm motility",
        "Pregnancy rate",
        "Live birth rate",
        "Congenital anomalies",
        "Birth weight"
    ],
    "main_findings": "Compared with sham exposure, both 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz exposure significantly reduced sperm concentration and motility. The 24 GHz group had a lower pregnancy rate and lower offspring birth weights, while the 3.5 GHz group had a lower live birth rate and congenital anomalies.",
    "effect_direction": "harm",
    "limitations": [
        "Animal study, limiting direct applicability to humans",
        "Only six exposed males per group",
        "The abstract does not report SAR, field strength, or other exposure dosimetry"
    ],
    "evidence_strength": "low",
    "confidence": 0.979999999999999982236431605997495353221893310546875,
    "peer_reviewed_likely": "yes",
    "keywords": [
        "5G",
        "3.5 GHz",
        "24 GHz",
        "radiofrequency",
        "male fertility",
        "sperm concentration",
        "sperm motility",
        "pregnancy rate",
        "birth outcomes",
        "congenital anomalies",
        "Sprague Dawley rats"
    ],
    "suggested_hubs": [
        {
            "slug": "5g-policy",
            "weight": 0.75,
            "reason": "The study directly evaluates biological and reproductive outcomes associated with two frequencies used or anticipated for 5G technology."
        }
    ]
}

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