Bektas H, Yildirim S, Cakir S, Dogu S, Altindag F
Authors not listed · 2026
Low-level 3.5 GHz radiation reduced testosterone and damaged testicular tissue in rats, with CoQ10 providing partial protection.
Plain English Summary
Researchers exposed male rats to 3.5 GHz radiofrequency radiation (similar to some 5G frequencies) for 2 hours daily over 30 days and found significant damage to reproductive hormones and sperm-producing tissues. The antioxidant supplement CoQ10 provided partial protection against these harmful effects. This suggests that even low-level exposure to certain wireless frequencies may impact male fertility.
Why This Matters
This study adds to mounting evidence that wireless radiation affects male reproductive health, even at exposure levels considered 'safe' by current standards. The 3.5 GHz frequency tested here is actively used in 5G networks worldwide, making these findings directly relevant to everyday exposure from cell towers and devices. What's particularly concerning is that the SAR levels used (0.17 W/kg whole-body) are well below regulatory limits, yet still produced measurable harm to testosterone production and testicular tissue. The partial protective effect of CoQ10 suggests oxidative stress as a key mechanism of damage. While the researchers appropriately note that GSM modulation differs from current 5G signals, the frequency overlap means we cannot dismiss these results. The reality is that millions of men are now exposed to similar frequencies daily, and this research suggests that exposure may be undermining reproductive health in ways we're only beginning to understand.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Show BibTeX
@article{bektas_h_yildirim_s_cakir_s_dogu_s_altindag_f_ce4726,
author = {Unknown},
title = {Bektas H, Yildirim S, Cakir S, Dogu S, Altindag F},
year = {2026},
doi = {10.1002/bem.70043},
}