P-32: The Effect of Cell Phone Waves (900 MHZ - GSMBand) on Sperm Parameters and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Adult Male Rats

Background: There is a great concern for the possible adverse effects of cell phones’ microwaves. Contradictory results, however, have been reported for the effects of these waves on the body. In the present study, the effect of cell phone microwaves on sperm parameters and total antioxidant capacity was investigated with regard to the duration of exposure and the amount of the frequency of these waves. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was performed on twenty eight Wistar adult male rats (200- 250 g). The animals were randomly assigned to four groups (n=7): control group, two-week exposure to cell phone simulated waves group, three-week exposure to cell phone simulated waves group, and two-week exposure to cell phone antennae waves group. In all groups, sperm analysis was performed based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards and the mean of sperm total antioxidant capacity was determined by Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma (FRAP). The data were analyzed by one- way ANOVA statistical technique followed by Tukey test using SPSS (version 16) software. Results: The findings of the study indicated that sperm viability, motility, and total antioxidant capacity in all exposure groups decreased significantly compared to control group (p<0.05). Further, increasing the duration of exposure from 2 to 3 weeks caused a statistically significant decrease in the sperm viability and motility (p> 0.05).Conclusion: Exposure to cell phone waves can decrease sperm viability and motility in adult male rats. These waves can also decrease sperm total antioxidant capacity in rats resulting in oxidative stress.