A recent study carried out by researcher s at Queen's University in Kingston, Ont. has revealed some surprising information about the risks of mobile phone use.

The researchers have found that the electromagnetic waves emitted by cell phones may have a direct effect on male hormone levels and fertility. The study indicates that electromagnetic waves may increase production of the basic circulating type of testosterone, but may also decrease the production of luteinizing hormone.

This dual action on hormone levels may affect fertility by leading to lower sperm count as well as lower sperm quality in men.

According to Rany Shamloul, a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and lead researcher on the project, "Our findings were a little bit puzzling. We were expecting to find different results, but the results we did find suggest that there could be some intriguing mechanisms at work".

The impact of cell phone use on human health has long been an area of study and it is widely known that electromagnetic waves can affect cells all over the body. However, since cell phone testing does not reflect how cell phones are actually used, it is difficult to tell how much damage, if any, cell phone use can cause.

Although further studies are needed, Shamloul warns people to be cautious regarding cell phone use.